AMI Depression Resource Navigator
Some Facts about Depression and Heart Disease:
First, the Bad News:
- Depression is very bad for your heart. Being very depressed can be just as bad for you as having high cholesterol, smoking a pack of cigarettes a day, or having high blood pressure.
- Depression causes chemical changes in the body that lead to an increased risk of having another heart attack or dying from heart disease.
- Depression ruins your chances of good cardiac recovery by preventing you from taking the best possible care of yourself.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental condition with many physical symptoms characterized by feelings of sadness or a loss of pleasure or satisfaction with your life, and associated with some of the following:
- Trouble sleeping
- Change in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of being worthless
- Desire to harm yourself or others
- Depression is very common after a heart attack or coronary artery bypass surgery.
In fact, almost half of people suffer some degree of depression after these events. Now, the Good News:
- Depression need not be a part of cardiac recovery.
- Depression can be treated very effectively in people with heart disease.
- Treatment may include therapy, such as talking to a counselor about your feelings.
Sometimes a medication called an antidepressant may be given to you.
- Many people who have their depression treated feel more like themselves again.
- Be sure to speak to your doctor if you think you have any symptoms of depression.
- Your doctor can help you find effective treatment. Don't wait another day!
For more details read the Patient Educational Brochure.
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