The Psychological Impact of a Heart Attack – When to Worry and Seek Help
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
A Time of Physical and Psychological Vulnerability
The months following a heart attack, angioplasty with stent, or heart surgery are a sensitive time. The body is gradually recovering, and the mind may also feel shaken. It is important to take care of both physical and psychological aspects to support good recovery.
Actively participating in medical treatment and, when possible, in a cardiac rehabilitation program is a good starting point. It is also important to stay attentive to what you feel inside. About one in five people will experience a depressive episode after a heart attack.
When to Worry
It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional if certain difficulties persist, such as:
- Deep sadness or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Significant fatigue or sleep disturbances
- Intense fear of having another heart attack
- Avoidance of anything related to the illness (e.g., places, conversations, memories)
- Intrusive thoughts about death or feelings of abandonment
- Increased use of alcohol, medication, or drugs
- Difficulty imagining a return to work
The Value of Psychological Support
Health psychologists can help people who have had a cardiac episode by working on:
- Difficult emotions related to the illness (fear, grief, frustration)
- Depression and anxiety
- Sleep disturbances or stress
- Changes in lifestyle habits
- Relationships with loved ones or the medical team
- Challenges in returning to an active or professional life
How to Get Help
There are several ways to find psychological support: private psychologists’ offices, mental health clinics, cardiac rehabilitation programs, online support platforms, or helplines.
Internet searches using keywords such as “psychological support after heart attack,” “cardiac rehabilitation,” “post-heart attack anxiety,” or “stress therapy heart disease” can help identify resources in your area.
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It is an act of courage and kindness toward yourself.
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