Experiencing Trauma
Traumatic events have a lasting effect on us. While you might think that the impact is limited to the brain, the heart can also bear some of the damage of trauma, even years later. The stress that follows a traumatic event takes a toll on the heart. One study found that women who had experienced three or more traumatic events had an increased risk of heart disease due to abnormalities in their blood vessels. The types of trauma that triggered these health effects included being a survivor of abuse, losing a child, getting in a car accident, and experiencing a natural disaster. According to the American Heart Association, trauma experienced during childhood and adolescence can have lasting negative health effects, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
The American Psychological Association recommends the following if you’re struggling to cope with trauma: Take care of yourself. The most important thing you can do after experiencing trauma is to make sure you’re taking care of your basic needs. Make sure that you’re getting enough to eat and eating healthy meals. Try to stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and get some physical activity if you’re able. Give yourself time to heal. Reach out to family and friends. Your loved ones may be able to help you process what you’ve been through or just be a shoulder to cry on. Seek treatment. Mental health professionals can help you get through the aftermath of a traumatic event and give you tools to help you cope. consider seeking counseling if you’re struggling to carry on or maintain relationships.
Where Do We Find This Stuff? Here Are Our Sources:
Surprising Things That Lead to Heart Disease
Cardiovascular disease risk factors | Ada
15 Weird Heart Disease Risk Factors, According to Doctors
5 surprising heart attack risk factors most people don’t know
Heart Information Center: Heart Disease Risk Factors
Surprising Risk Factors of Heart Disease and How to Avoid Them