Mental health disorders linked to increased cardiovascular risk

A Danish study published in ‘The Journal of American Heart Association’ indicates that psychiatric disorders resulting from traumatic events increase the likelihood of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or strokes. Research led by Jennifer Sumner from the University of California identifies alcoholism as the primary psychological factor predicting cardiovascular risk in both men and women.

While the study did not focus solely on the harmful effects of alcohol, it noted that alcohol use disorders contribute to high blood pressure, increased inflammation, poor nutrition, and obesity. Other conditions linked to trauma, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety, also impact heart health. These disorders can influence cardiovascular wellness through physical changes like sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity or through unhealthy behaviors such as physical inactivity, smoking, and sleep disturbances.