Experiencing heartbreak for the first time, whether from a broken romantic relationship or friendship or losing a loved one, you wonder why your heart is physically hurting when it’s your brain and emotions that are on that rollercoaster of despair. It turns out there are many links between heart and mind. Here, we delve into the way mental health impacts overall heart health.
Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your heart health, says Natalie Raffoul, Healthcare Programs Manager at Heart Foundation, adding that around three million Australians are currently living with depression or anxiety, which can increase the chances of developing heart disease.
“The good news is that anxiety and depression in people with heart disease can be managed safely and effectively,” she said.
“Psychological stressors such as social isolation and loneliness can also affect your mental health.”
Important note
It’s important for pharmacy assistants to be aware that referral to a GP is the first port of call when faced with a customer presenting with mental or heart health concerns.
More information about mental health can be accessed via the beyondblue.org.au website or by calling BeyondBlue on 1300 22 4636.
Strategies for heart and mind health
Ms Raffoul reveals a number of ways the Heart Foundation recommends for people to stay on top of their heart and mind health.
- Get physical, eat well. “The Heart Foundation recommends that you’re at least physically active for 30 minutes each day, follow a heart-healthy eating pattern, achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, limit your salt and alcohol intake, and quit smoking,” Ms Raffoul said.
- Regular GP checks. “If you’re 45 or over – 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people – you should visit your GP for a heart health check, which includes measuring your blood pressure. This will help determine your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the following five years.”
- Check the family tree. During a heart health check, the GP will also check blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar (glucose) levels, as well as discuss lifestyle and family history.
- Prescribed medicines. A GP at this point may also prescribe medicines that can help manage blood pressure.
Tips for pharmacy assistants
Pharmacy assistants should equip themselves with knowledge relating to what a GP can provide in terms of heart health and how they can help if a patient takes advantage of regular visits.
“Encourage people to talk with their doctor about their mental health and their heart disease risk factors,” Ms Raffoul said.
Much of the time, people don’t realise they may be at risk of heart disease until they speak with someone else about their own experiences. A pharmacy is a great hub to share stories and provide insight on how talking with health professionals can help a life drastically.
“Staying socially connected and talking with family and friends can also help wellbeing,” Ms Raffoul said.
More information on heart and mind health can be accessed via heartfoundation.org.au/bundles/your-heart/mental-health-and-heart-disease.
This feature was originally published in the April issue of Retail Pharmacy Assistants e-magazine.
