Depression Support Group

Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.

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Friend had heart attack at 21, very scared

imtav
imtav

I just found out yesterday that a family friend suffered a major heart attack a couple days ago... at the age of 21.  He has suffered from depression for probably half his life by now, in and out of hospitals, attempted suicide once.  But now this?  I've read that people with depression are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, but this obviously still came as a major shock. Discussing with my family about how this situation is affecting me seems very selfish right now, so that's why I turn to this group for guidance.  I'm 33, which suddenly feels very old in the wake of this news, and it has left me feeling very vulnerable.  I'm doing the most I can to take care of myself, I've lost 30 pounds over the past several months, trying to get out regularly for walks.  Do you think it's the medication that could have caused this (I don't even know what he was taking, and don't feel comfortable asking now)?  Or does this happen because of the lifestyle and stress and anxiety that come with major depression?

IamStillHere
IamStillHere
Honestly, I wouldn't know. Please go and talk to a therapist or a doctor about this! You need to look after yourself too. :D hope you feel a bit better soon.
OlderCPer
OlderCPer
Generally heart disease comes from people not taking care of themselves, eating junk, being overweight, not exercising. Psych meds like anti-depressants don't have cardio side effects for the most part. It's more renal issues, i.e. liver and kidneys that you have to watch somewhat depending on the medication, they are not all the same. Severely Depressed people don't generally take good care of themselves, they don't eat many fruits and veggies, they don't get much exercise and can be overweight from lack of activity. Also if they overdose, the usual meds used are Tylenol/Ibuprofen or Narcotics and those can all be rough on the heart in large doses. So it can be many different things. Heart Disease also has a Genetic component, if it was in his family that would make him more susceptible when added to the other conditions.

Just being on psych meds is not going to make you more prone to having Heart Disease.

Take care,
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