A heart attack can trigger a wide range of emotional responses. Recognizing these reactions and learning about coping strategies can make this demanding period more manageable.
The event itself often acts as a profound emotional shock. Fears may arise, and one’s ability to adapt is put to the test. Coming to terms with the fact that the heart — a vital organ — has been damaged by disease can be particularly difficult.
This worry may be intensified by comparisons to other people’s experiences. Knowing someone who passed away following a heart attack, or facing heart disease for the first time, can heighten fear and increase feelings of vulnerability.
Each person goes through this stage in their own way. Emotional responses are shaped by various factors, such as the severity of the heart attack, the circumstances surrounding the event, personal history, individual personality, current stress levels, and available coping resources.
There are three main aspects to consider when addressing the psychological effects of a heart attack:
- The most common emotional reactions
- Strategies that can support adjustment
- Recognizing when it is important to seek help
What are the most common psychological reactions after a heart attack?
Several psychological reactions are common—and completely normal—after a heart attack. They are part of the emotional process of coming to terms with a change in one’s health and the personal or relational upheavals that may follow. Here are some of the main reactions observed:
- Shock and detachment
This is a state of shock, a feeling of being emotionally disconnected from what has just happened. It may be difficult to fully grasp the reality of the event. Some people feel as if it’s not really happening to them. This is a natural way to protect oneself from a traumatic experience.
Over time, the brain helps process the event, gradually moving from detachment to a clearer awareness of what occurred and its impact.
- Anger
Feelings of frustration, injustice, or resentment may arise: “Why is this happening to me?” Some people feel they did everything right to stay healthy and are left disappointed or confused by the heart attack.
- Denial
This involves minimizing or refusing to accept the reality of the illness. One might think everything is fine and try to return to life exactly as it was before, without making any changes.
Denial can be a way to avoid the emotional weight of having to adopt new habits or accept long-term treatment, like quitting smoking or taking daily medication.
- Sadness
Sadness can stem from losing a sense of physical security, facing new physical limits, or being confronted with thoughts of mortality. This is a completely normal reaction.
Fortunately, it usually fades over time, especially as one learns to live with the condition and realizes that a fulfilling life is still very possible.
- Desire to withdraw
Some people feel the need to spend time alone or only with close loved ones, as a way to recentre or feel safe.
- Shame and feeling diminished
One might feel “less than,” ashamed of having had a heart attack, or perceive oneself as weaker or less valuable.
- Guilt
Guilt may arise when someone believes the heart attack was their fault—for example, due to lack of exercise or smoking.
But it’s important to remember that the causes of a heart attack are often multiple and complex, and self-blame is rarely justified.
- Fear
Many people fear having another heart attack, feel they are permanently changed, worry about dying, being abandoned, or not being able to return to their previous life. These fears are very common and can affect many aspects of daily life.
- Avoidance
Avoidance involves not wanting to think about the heart attack or refusing to talk about it, because the emotions are too overwhelming to handle.
- Hypervigilance
This is the constant monitoring of any physical sensation that could resemble previous symptoms, out of fear that another heart problem is developing.
How long will it take to feel better emotionally?
These emotional reactions tend to fade gradually as people adjust to living with a heart condition, resume their daily activities, and take care of their health. Ups and downs are part of the process.
Adaptation may take a few weeks or several months, depending on the individual. The most important thing is to move at one’s own pace.
Related articles
Latest articles
