Mental Health Disorders Significantly Increase Heart Disease Risk
A 2025 review in the Lancet Journal Health reveals that untreated mental health conditions like depression, schizophrenia, and PTSD dramatically increase cardiovascular disease risk in adults over 50.
People with untreated mental health conditions face an elevated risk of heart disease, including heart attacks, according to a 2025 review published in the Lancet Journal Health. Nearly 1 in 7 U.S. Adults over age 50 live with a mental health disorder.
The review found that major depression increases cardiovascular disease risk by 72%, schizophrenia by 95%, bipolar disorder by 57%, PTSD by 61%, and anxiety disorders by 41%.
Cardiovascular disease predominantly affects people over 50, creating a significant burden for this demographic. Dr. Viola Vaccarino, lead author of the paper and chair of cardiovascular research at Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, emphasizes that mental health conditions impact both lifestyle choices (poor diet and physical activity) and biological responses (inflammation and fight-or-flight system overactivation).
Managing mental health for heart health includes several strategies:
1. Behavioral activation therapy - Pursue individualized joy-bringing activities such as walks or social time
2. Social connections - Social bonds correlate with better heart outcomes
3. Continued learning - Cognitive activity through hobbies, puzzles, or volunteering
4. Mind-body practices - Yoga improves blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI while addressing mental health
5. Stress management - Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, increasing cardiovascular risks
6. Healthy lifestyle choices - Exercise is as effective as antidepressants and reduces cardiovascular risk
Post-cardiac event mental health is also a critical concern. One in three cardiac patients experience depression, PTSD, or anxiety. Depression after heart issues raises the risk of future cardiac events. Dr. Jeff Huffman recommends routine mental health assessments post-cardiac events and integrated treatment of mental and physical health.
The Lancet Journal Health review analyzed biological, behavioral, and healthcare access factors linking mental health to cardiovascular risks, providing a full understanding of this critical health connection.
