Depression and Heart Failure Study

05/06/08 Research

Researchers estimate that about 30 percent of patients with congestive failure also face depression.

It isn’t unusual for congestive heart failure patients to not recognize they suffer from both.  A recent study published some good news: relief may come through a program of exercise and counseling.

The results were presented during a poster session at the American Heart Association 2008 Quality of Care and Outcomes Research in Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke Conference.

Patients were divided into four groups to monitor each component. The exercise consisted of walking for 30 minutes, three times a week. Participants were given heart monitors and taught how to use them. They were also instructed on recognizing when they had reached the limits of tolerable exercise. The population had an average age of 66.

The patients who exercised and had regular counseling not only did far better when rating their depression at the end of the study, but also fared more successful on the six-minute treadmill test. The other groups received only counseling, only exercise, or only the routine care associated with congestive heart failure. The group that only received counseling actually dropped in physical capacity and quality of life to the same level as those receiving routine care.

It is interesting and not hard to believe there is a correlation between mind and body. Readers should understand they are intertwined and not independent of one another.

Corie Richter is a nurse and physician's assistant who started her career as a health educator. The survivor of a myocardial infarction (heart attack) and partially successful quadruple bypass surgery, she did not let her health challenges hamper her. Neither the limitations of spinal surgery nor of diabetes have deterred her from a mission of service. She now encourages others through writing and speaking engagements to master their disabilities through education and a proactive attitude.