MEDIATORS UNDERPINNING THE LINK BETWEEN HEART FAILURE AND SUICIDE

Abstract

Heart failure is a severe cardiac symptom involving structural and functional cardiac dysfunctions leading to impaired ventricular filling and ejection functions. The distinctive manifestation of heart failure includes dyspnea, fluid retention, cerebral ischemia, and multiple system organ failure. Patients with heart failure describe it as a death-like experience. Meanwhile, these patients commonly suffer from anxiety, depression, and other mental issues. Due to the physical and emotional suffering, the risk of suicide is high among patients with heart failure. This study aims to review previous publications on the given topic. The link between heart failure and suicide was affirmed. Furthermore, a spectrum of provocative mediators (e.g., pain, economic deprivation, and depression) and preventive mediators (e.g., social bonds, social welfare, and mindfulness) underpinning the heart failure–suicide relationship were highlighted. To conclude, the systematic understanding of these mediators and the heart failure–suicide relationship can strengthen the foundation of future mental health promotion for individuals suffering from heart failure.