People often ask if there is a link between 'stress' and heart disease. The term 'stress' has no exact meaning, so it is difficult to measure its effect on heart disease. However it has recently been shown that people who experience depression, are socially isolated or do not have quality social support are at greater risk of developing coronary heart disease.

Further information is available in our information sheet, 'Stress and Coronary Heart Disease' or refer to the full text article published in the Medical Journal of Australia by clicking here.

Resources

Depression and coronary heart disease - information sheet (2005)  Download

'Stress' and Coronary Heart Disease: Psychosocial Factors (2003)
 Download

Physical Activity and Depression  Download

For further information regarding mental health and/or depression, we recommend visiting the Beyond Blue website by clicking here.