AFib and Mental Health
If you have atrial fibrillation (AFib), research indicates you're more likely to experience depression and anxiety, although it's not always clear which condition comes first. Stress, anxiety, or depression may increase your likelihood of developing AFib, while living with AFib can also heighten feelings of anxiety and depression.
Studies suggest that approximately 4 in 10 individuals with AFib also struggle with depression, anxiety, or cognitive issues, such as memory problems. Among older adults, this number rises, with 6 in 10 affected.
How Does Mental Health Impact AFib?
Your mental health can affect your ability to manage AFib and may even worsen its symptoms. While a clear connection between AFib and mental health issues like depression and anxiety exists, the exact reasons remain uncertain. Researchers have explored these links, but findings are mixed.
One study on individuals aged 65 and older with AFib found that 60% of participants experienced at least one mental health issue, such as depression or cognitive impairment, with 25% having multiple issues. Those with more mental health-related symptoms tended to report more AFib symptoms.
Another study reviewed numerous research papers to explore the link between mental health and AFib, investigating factors such as anxiety, anger, depression, and psychological stress. While some studies suggested a connection, others didn’t, indicating that the relationship between mental health and AFib is complex.
In particular, depression may influence when AFib symptoms begin, the severity of those symptoms, and outcomes like the risk of stroke or mortality. For instance, individuals with both AFib and depression face a greater risk of dying, experiencing strokes, and having a lower quality of life.
How AFib Can Impact Your Mental Health
Living with AFib can be emotionally challenging. Its symptoms might limit your ability to live the life you want, leading to increased anxiety and depression. One study found that individuals with AFib reported higher levels of mental distress and suicidal thoughts than healthy participants, with 35% of those with symptomatic AFib experiencing severe psychological distress.
Interestingly, the type of treatment for AFib may affect mental health. People who underwent an ablation procedure—a method to correct abnormal heart rhythms—reported fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those who took medications alone. Ablation may be associated with better mental health outcomes, while poor mental health can make AFib more likely to recur after treatment.
Can Antidepressants Cause AFib?
Although some studies suggest a possible link between antidepressant use and an increased risk of AFib, more research is needed to confirm this. A large-scale study found that individuals taking antidepressants were more likely to have AFib, though the exact cause remains unknown. Further investigation is required to determine which antidepressants, if any, may raise AFib risk.
Measuring Mental Health in AFib Patients
To better understand and track mental health in AFib patients, tools like the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality-of-Life (AFEQT) Questionnaire, Atrial Fibrillation Symptom Severity (AFSS) scale, and the SF-36 health survey are integrated into our treatment plans. These, along with various mental health questionnaires, help measure mental health outcomes related to AFib.
Getting Help for Mental Health When You Have AFib
Managing stress, anxiety, and depression is crucial when living with AFib. Techniques like exercise, meditation, relaxation, and spending time with loved ones can be helpful. However, if you're struggling despite these efforts, seek support from a healthcare provider. If you’ve been feeling persistently depressed for two weeks or more, or if you experience thoughts of suicide, it's important to reach out for professional help.