How hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can affect mental health

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition caused by genetic mutations that affect the composition of the myocardium (also known as cardiac muscle), a type of muscle tissue that makes up the heart. As this muscle contracts and relaxes, the heart pumps blood.

When a person has HCM, the cardiac muscle becomes thickened. This can cause obstructions and blockages that impair the heart’s ability to pump blood. Some people with HCM experience symptoms such as abnormal heart rhythms (called arrythmias), chest pain, fainting, and shortness of breath.

Other people experience symptoms only during exercise or exertion. And many people with HCM do not experience any symptoms.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and mental health

In addition to affecting the heart and cardiovascular system, HCM can also affect a person’s mental health. While the impact of the condition is different for every person, examples include:

• Uncertainty and anxiety about symptoms getting worse, or HCM causing serious complications, such as sudden cardiac death.
• Negative moods and emotions—such as anger, sadness, and frustration—which can accompany a diagnosis of any chronic illness.
• Reduced quality of life caused by uncomfortable symptoms and physical limitations.
• Challenges in social interactions and relationships, as a person may need to explain their condition to others, modify their activities, or avoid certain situations.
• Changes in self-esteem, as a person may feel differently about themselves, their body, and what they are able to do.
• The stress of managing HCM, which can involve medical appointments, medications, lifestyle modifications, and treatment decisions.
• Mood disorders like depression and anxiety, which are prevalent among people with HCM. Depression and anxiety have been associated with worse outcomes among people with HCM.

Coping with the mental and emotional impact of HCM

It’s important for people living with HCM to take steps to address the psychological and emotional challenges that accompany the condition.

• Find safe ways to exercise. Talk to your healthcare providers about what types of physical activity are safe. Exercise can boost mood and mental wellbeing, but some activities may need to be limited or avoided for people with HCM.
• Focus on a healthy lifestyle. Eat a heart-healthy diet, get enough sleep, and address any other health conditions or health concerns you have (such as concerns about blood glucose or blood pressure, for example).
• Avoid unhealthy coping behaviors. Stress and concern can sometimes lead to unhealthy coping behaviors—things like unhealthy eating habits, smoking, consuming too much alcohol, or using other substances. Avoiding unhealthy habits like these is an essential part to managing HCM, and another topic to discuss with your healthcare provider.
• Try stress-reducing activities. This can include meditation, mindful breathing, and yoga. It can also include journaling, listening to music, playing with a pet, and simply taking some time to yourself.
• Keep learning about HCM. More knowledge about the condition and diagnosis can help you feel more in control and make better treatment decisions.
• Build your support network. Friends and family can provide important emotional and practical support during those times when you need it. Also consider looking for a support group for other people living with HCM.
• Work with a professional. Consider working with a healthcare provider that specializes in mental health. Counseling and therapy can help you learn coping strategies to help with what you are experiencing.

Much of the treatment of a condition like HCM focuses on the symptoms and physical impact, but a good treatment plan will also address the other ways that HCM is impacting your life. Always be open and honest with your healthcare team about anything that is difficult, anything you are struggling with, and anything you are concerned about.