Prioritize Your Heart: Understanding Heart Disease and Mental Health Risks for Men

Heart disease, which includes several types of conditions like coronary artery disease and heart failure, is the leading cause of death among men in the United States.[2] Half of the men who die suddenly of heart disease had no previous symptoms.[3] That’s why, even if you feel fine, it’s important to take care of your health – and especially your heart. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, three key risk factors for heart disease are high blood pressure, high LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and smoking. About half of Americans (47%) have at least one of these three risk factors.[3] Other risk factors include being diabetic, being overweight/obese, eating an unhealthy diet, not getting enough physical activity, or drinking alcohol heavily.[3] 

Don’t forget! Higi Health Stations offer free and convenient ways for you to track many of these risk factors. Stop by your nearest station to check your blood pressure, weight, BMI and even learn your risk for type 2 diabetes. 

Heart health & mental health 

For many men, heart disease is linked with mental health problems, including anxiety and depression.4 Symptoms of depression for men include feeling angry, acting aggressively, abusing drugs or alcohol, and having trouble sleeping.[4]

Each of these behaviors can put men at risk for heart problems by raising blood pressure and putting extra stress on the heart. Make sure you seek professional help if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.