Emotions and heart health : the role of psychological states on heart disease

Abstract

Over the last decade research on the effect of psychological impact on the onset of heart disease has increased dramatically. The objective of this research study is to review the evidence of these effects on acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and link it to individuals through the analysis of their lived experiences prior to experiencing an AMI. Information on the topic was researched, with key terms such as AMI, coronary heart disease (CHD), cardiac health, Type D personality, stress and social support being included in the search strategy. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used in order to investigate the research question. Five participants, both male and female under the age of 65, not less then ten weeks after their first AMI, who were not under any psychiatric treatment, and who recovered well from their AMI without any complications were selected, and semi---structured interviews were conducted. Through the analysis of the results gathered from the interviews it became clear that the participants reported a number of psychosocial risk factors in the year prior to experiencing an AMI. Stress was a main factor present in the participants' lives and this factor leads to a chain of other risks. Behavioural risk factors, such as diets high in fat and smoking, were also present. Therefore, the results of this study corresponded with the literature and concluded that both behavioural and psychological factors are risk factors for CHD. Further research on the topic is needed in order to provide conclusive support and to work towards a more integrative approach to the prevention of CHD.