The Doctor is In: Link between Depression and Coronary Artery Disease

Depression is the most common psychiatric diagnosis and is frequently seen among patients with chronic medical illnesses. A recent study published in Psychiatric Times stated depression is common among patients with coronary artery disease (#1 cause of death in the USA) and can increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Concerning this correlation, it is important to remember that the body and mind are one, and the underlying mechanisms are interrelated and inseparable as one feeds into the other to create a vicious cycle.

1. Biological mechanism: Depression causes biological changes, such as decreased heart rate variability and increases in blood factors that enhance clot formation.

2. Behavioral mechanism: Depression promotes an unhealthy lifestyle such as lack of exercise, eating a poor diet and noncompliance to medication, all feeding back to the biological mechanism.

I think the old saying is true: you can die from a broken heart. But remember, depression is a treatable disease via a multifaceted approach. A combination of psychotherapy, anti-depressants, and living a healthier lifestyle are the three pillars to effective management of depression. Please seek help from a mental health professional or your primary care physician if you suffer from major depression.

Christopher J. Helfer, MD