How can mental health conditions affect heart health?

Mental and physical health go hand in hand. People with mental health conditions have higher rates of the following health conditions that can affect the heart:

• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Problems caused by smoking
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes

The conditions listed above increase your risk of heart problems, cardiovascular disease, or strokes later in life.

For a limited number of patients, some types of medications prescribed for mental health conditions can increase the long-term risk of weight gain, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar. It's important to know your own risk factors before treatment so you can make a balanced decision as to the benefits and risks of taking these medications long term.

Managing your risk factors is vital to your heart health. Your mental health provider can help you assess your risk factors and learn ways to manage them to prevent heart disease.