when your heart Heals, but your mind still hurts: Understanding cardiac ptsd
Hello Pulse Point readers!
We often focus on the physical recovery after a major heart event, but what about the hidden emotional scars? Did you know that up to 1/3 of people who go through life-altering cardiac events can develop a type of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) called Cardiac PTSD? It's a real and serious issue, and researchers are finally getting closer to understanding and preventing it.
For almost 15 years, Dr. Donald Edmondson at Columbia University has been a pioneer in this field, studying how this unique form of medical trauma affects people. He, along with Dr. James Jackson from Vanderbilt University, realized that while there are programs for cancer survivors, there weren't many specific resources for those who've been through a tough time in the cardiovascular ICU/CICU/CVICU. As Dr. Jackson puts it, addressing these emotional challenges early on is "crucial because in the absence of early intervention, these problems threaten to morph into challenges that are even harder to handle."
What Does Cardiac PTSD Look Like?
It's not always obvious, but researchers like Dr. Edmondson have found some key warning signs cardiologists can look for. It could be as simple as a 4-point check-in:
Extreme Fear: Was the cardiac event terrifying for the patient?
Focus on Sensations: Do they talk a lot about their chest sensations or symptoms, constantly wondering what they mean?
Sleep Troubles: Are they having problems sleeping?
Inactivity: Are they avoiding physical activity?
If these signs are present, it's a good indicator someone might be at higher risk for cardiac PTSD and could benefit from seeing a mental health professional.
The Road Ahead: Prevention and Intervention
The exciting news is that researchers are now working on ways to help people avoid or overcome cardiac PTSD. One idea is to integrate behavioral health support directly into cardiology clinics, much like how depression care is handled. This kind of "collaborative treatment" could not only improve mental health but also reduce the risk of future heart problems!
Interestingly, some patients who get a stent (a procedure called PCI) might feel "cured" even if their underlying heart disease isn't entirely gone. This "plumbing model" of heart health, while inaccurate, highlights the powerful role of the mind. Researchers are exploring how we can harness this mental power for good, not by misleading patients, but by redirecting that belief in healing.
Technology is also stepping up to the plate. Dr. Jeffrey L. Birk at Columbia is researching how to help patients overcome the fear of their heart event recurring, especially when everyday things like a faster heartbeat during exercise can trigger intrusive thoughts. He wants to understand how these fears affect activity levels once patients are home. And Dr. Sachin Agarwal, a neurologist at Columbia, believes AI-powered tools could offer personalized support, help with follow-up appointments, and even create digital peer support networks. Imagine intelligent apps or "conversational agents" helping patients through their recovery!
This research is a huge step forward. The goal is to help millions of people treat their heart disease without the added burden of mental trauma. It’s about ensuring that as your heart heals, your mind does too.
If you would like support in dealing with the after effects of a cardiac diagnoses or event, learn about what to expect, and build resiliency - please contact me JoAnnGreenCoach@gmail.com
Maximizing GLP-1 Success: The Power of Health Coaching
GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide & their impressive weight loss results. Clinical trials show significant weight loss with these medications, & it's understandable to be excited about these advancements.
However, as research, including a study co-authored by Gary Sforzo, PhD, in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, points out, GLP-1 medications aren't a standalone solution. Just like medications for hypertension, stopping GLP-1 often leads to weight regain. Adherence is also a challenge, with many patients discontinuing within a few months due to side effects, cost, or the emotional aspects of changing eating habits.
The key is that GLP-1s were designed to work alongside lifestyle changes—healthy eating & increased activity. But often, patients don't receive the support they need to make these changes last.
That's where Health Coaching, & particularly the approach we take at Jo Ann Green Health Coach LLC, comes in. We understand that lasting weight loss & wellness require more than just medication. It requires addressing the underlying behaviors & emotional connections that impact your health & wellbeing.
Why Health Coaching Matters with Jo Ann Green Health Coach, LLC:
Personalized Support: We don't give you a diet; we work with you to understand your unique challenges & help you decide what works for you.
Behavior Change Expertise: We utilize evidence-based strategies to help you tackle your emotional eating, food cravings, exercise avoidance, & other obstacles.
Long-Term Focus: We're not just about short-term results; we're about building sustainable habits that support your well-being long after you stop medication.
Holistic Approach: Whether you're navigating GLP-1 treatment, bariatric surgery, or managing cardiac conditions, we address the whole person—mind, body, & spirit.
At Jo Ann Green Health Coach LLC, we bridge the gap between medical interventions & real-life behavior change. We partner with you to help you reach your optimal wellness vision.
This research underscores that GLP-1 medications are a powerful tool, but they are most effective when combined with lifestyle medicine. Health Coaching is the crucial piece that transforms temporary weight loss into lasting, whole-body wellness.
If you're ready to take control of your health & build a foundation for sustainable change, we're here to help. Let's work together to make your wellness goals a reality. Reach out today, and let's start your journey to a healthier, happier you.
Women & Heart disease
How Does Heart Disease Differ in Women?
Women may not realize the signs & symptoms of cardiovascular/heart disease differ than men, that some cardiovascular diseases are more common in women, or how being a women including menstruation, pregnancy & menopause impact their heart health.
Women may ignore the signs of heart disease or heart attack, seeing the symptoms as due to anxiety, stress, or something like acid reflux.1
Heart disease is the #1 killer of women in the US, and younger women are experiencing heart attacks.2
Know your risk factors as a woman, these are just some to look out for:
High blood pressure – high blood pressure may result from taking birth control pills, or during pregnancy, or result with age. Speak with your health care provider about your concerns.
High cholesterol – especially high LDL “bad” cholesterol. Estrogen may protect women from unhealthy cholesterol, but as we age, estrogen falls & high cholesterol may occur.
Smoking – studies show women may have a harder time quitting than men – seek advice from your health care provider to quit if you smoke.
Know the symptoms of a HEART ATTACK & CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY:
• Shortness of breath
• Pain or discomfort/uneasy feeling in different parts of the body like the back, neck, jaw, arms or stomach
• Nausea & vomiting
• Tiredness/fatigue
• Lightheadedness
• Cold sweats
Seek help immediately – call 911
References:
1. https://globalhearthub.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Women-and-Heart- booklet_Draft_03_090924_e-copy.pdf
2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/heart-attack/heart- attacks-striking-younger-women
American college of cardiology on health coaching
It all begins with an idea.
This month the American College of Cardiology (ACC) published an article titled "Prioritizing Health: Journey of the Health and Well-Being Coaching Profession," highlighting the evolution and significance of health and well-being coaching (HWC) in combating cardiovascular disease. The article emphasizes that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally, with 20.1 million fatalities in 2021, primarily due to modifiable lifestyle-related risk factors such as poor diet, smoking, and physical inactivity. HWC has emerged over the past decade as a respected partnership between coaches and patients, focusing on physical, emotional, and behavioral health to enhance cardiovascular and metabolic well-being.
The ACC article underscores the vital role of lifestyle improvements in preventing and managing cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. Health and well-being coaches collaborate with patients to set personalized goals, develop sustainable health habits, and navigate challenges in behavior change. This patient-centered approach has been shown to improve outcomes by addressing the root causes of unhealthy behaviors and empowering individuals to take control of their health.
The article also discusses the integration of HWC into clinical practice, noting that incorporating coaching into standard care can lead to better patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. By fostering a supportive environment, health and well-being coaches help patients make lasting changes that reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and improve overall quality of life.
Health and well-being coaching help address lifestyle-related risk factors in cardiovascular disease. By focusing on personalized, patient-centered strategies, HWC offers a promising avenue for enhancing heart health and preventing disease progression.