Q&A with Her Heart CEO & Founder – Dr Linda Worrall-Carter

• What does Liptember mean to you, and why do you believe women’s mental health matters?

There are many months during the year that are important for women’s health. Not many people know that there’s an important link between the heart and the mind. The Liptember Foundation does great work through raising awareness and encouraging people, particularly women, to wear brightly coloured lipstick throughout September to spark conversations about mental health and remove stigma. Women’s mental health matters because it addresses the unique challenges and experiences that women may face, this can be from hormonal fluctuations through to societal expectations.

• How do you see the interplay between mental health and heart health? Are there specific ways in which taking care of our mental well-being can positively impact our heart health?

There is a strong connection between mental health and heart health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Stress can lead to elevated blood pressure, inflammation, and unhealthy behaviours such as overeating or smoking, all of which negatively impact heart health. Taking care of mental well-being through stress reduction techniques, coping strategies, and seeking support can therefore have a positive effect on heart health.

Research shows the importance of prioritising our mental well-being as this can lead to many positive impacts on heart health. Engaging in stress-relief activities like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can lower stress hormones (inflammation in the body) and subsequently reduce strain on the heart. Improved mental health can also lead to healthier lifestyle choices, such as adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco/ vaping. Additionally, positive mental health can foster better relationships and support systems, which contribute to overall well-being and indirectly influence heart health.

• How do you personally prioritise your own mental well-being? What practices or strategies do you find helpful?

Here are some of the things that I do:

• Mindfulness and Meditation: I regularly meditate (twice a day and have done this at least daily for over 15 years). Also, I practise mindfulness during the day (might be while walking) as this significantly helps my stress levels!
• Regular Physical Activity:  This is a non-negotiable! I have to do something every day; I might not always be able to get to the gym but will make time for a walk. I now live by the beach so there’s really no excuse! It’s well-known that exercise releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce anxiety. It also helps you sleep better which is important for mental health.
• Healthy Lifestyle: I always eat well and make time for meal prep and planning ahead. My mantra is “you are what you eat” and maintaining a balanced diet (in particular the Mediterranean diet) supports both my mental and physical health.
• Social Connections: Life can get busy but I try to catch up and keep in touch with friends, building and nurturing relationships provides important emotional support and a sense of belonging.
• Setting Boundaries: I’m learning this one! … and haven’t always been good at setting boundaries (limits) but this is important to prevent burnout.

Seeking Professional Help: There’s absolutely no shame in seeing a health professional, There have been times in my life when I have reached out and received counselling and they not only listened but provided you with effective strategies and coping mechanisms.