Ireland Baldwin on her cardiophobia: 'I live in a constant fear that I’m dying from a heart attack'
Ireland Baldwin lives in “constant fear” of having a heart attack.
The 26-year-old model suffers from “heart palpitations and chest pains” as a result of her anxiety, and has said the side effects of the condition mean she’s developed cardiophobia – which is a fear of heart-related health problems.
Posting a picture of herself holding up a blood pressure monitor, she wrote on Instagram: “I ordered a blood pressure monitor to accurately read my heart rate and blood pressure because I live in a constant fear that I’m dying from a heart attack … also known as cardiophobia.
“The heart palpitations and chest pain brought on by your typical anxiety attack convinces me that I am a 26 year old with an underlying heart condition that I don’t have. I do not take medication. (sic)”
Ireland doesn’t take medication for her anxiety because she doesn’t “believe in it”, and says other forms of coping – including “breath work” – have failed to be effective.
She added: “I don’t believe in it, but I understand some people need their medications. I have worked with anxiety specialists, and I have gotten into breath work, but nothing brings me more comfort than an EKG.
“My anxiety has gotten SO BAD in the past that I have called ambulances and have had hospital visits where paramedics and doctors assure me my heart is ok. I know it may seem silly to you, but this little machine has brought me the utmost comfort.
“I just want anyone who suffers from their own anxieties to know that I am here and you are not alone. It can be so embarrassing and isolating at times. My anxiety has made me miss out on a lot in this life and my true 2022 goal is not let it get in my way. (sic)”
The model – who is the daughter of Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger – closed her post by encouraging others to do whatever they need to in order to feel “comforted”.
She said: “You’re not alone. Hold on to your comfort item right. Don’t let people make you feel guilty for having to take a walk or take some space or stay home because you’re not feeling good. Surround yourself with people who understand or at least try to. And if you’re feeling anxious right now … deep breaths. You’re going to be ok. :) (sic)”
