Heart Health and Depression

Heart Health and Depression

FACTS: 
Two of the most common illnesses suffered in today's society depression and heart disease. In fact, more than 25 million people in the United States are living with heart disease and more than 31 million Americans have had at least one episode of major depression during their lives. What most people do not know is that these conditions are also closely linked. People with depression are at greater risk of developing heart disease. Depression may directly or indirectly affect the heart in many ways. Researchers believe that changes in the heart’s electrical system, increases in stress hormones and blood pressure, changes in blood clotting, insulin and cholesterol levels may occur as a result of depression.  Source: Depression and Heart Disease, Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

HOPE:
The good news is that depressive feelings often can be managed and overcome. Here are seven simple, but effective, strategies for combating the blues and making the transition from sad to glad: 1) Work off depression through exercise; 2) Schedule joy - upbeat activities should be planned; 3) Introduce more light into daily life-researchers recommend opening curtains as widely as possible, getting outside daily for a brisk walk, adding better and brighter lights inside a living area; 4) Operate from volunteering and assisting others; Add color- Color psychologist Patricia Szczerba says: "Color can be a nutrient for the mind just as vitamins are for the body;"
6) Seek out positive people- Surround yourself with people who are enjoying life. Happiness is contagious. 7) When the “blues” don’t go away, seek appropriate help from your physician and counselor. Source: Victor M. Parachin, Pastor, Counselor, Supervision,1991

WHOLENESS:

A joyful heart (soul) does good like a medicine, but a sad spirit withers the bones.
Proverbs 17:22