Stress management is a significant lifestyle change for anyone living with heart failure. Stress can speed up the heart, which can result in adverse effects when it occurs frequently or is prolonged. Stress can even weaken the immune system or exacerbate an existing health problem. Furthermore, the impact of stress on behavior can increase blood pressure and damage blood vessels, essential to good circulation and overall mental and physical functioning. This is why stress management is a crucial component of cardiac rehabilitation.
What do you do to manage stress in your everyday life? Some popular stress management techniques include mindfulness/meditation, exercise, talk therapy, and getting enough sleep. Let us know in the comments!