Positive life change: It is not all doom and gloom! Many people also say they have increased joy in being alive, a re-evaluation of life goals and the value of their relationships, and increased feeling of well being through adopting a healthier lifestyle.
What is happening to me?
- I can”t believe this has happened
- Denial: In the early stages of diagnosis some patients are sceptical or disbelieve their heart condition or need for on-going treatment. It is thought that this is linked to feelings of being overwhelmed or in shock, which pass quickly as reality sinks in.
- What about my job?, I’m scared
- Anxiety: Most patients admitted to hospital with suspected heart disease are anxious. The anxiety generally lessens when they realise they have survived the immediate crisis. However, anxiety can often rise again at the time of discharge from the coronary care unit and again on discharge home. Anxiety can include being worried (often unduly) that you’re going to have another heart attack, being afraid of dying, fear that you are not making very good progress or doubts about the success of your treatment. It is important to recognise that financial issues may be the most heightened emotion at this time also.
- What’s the point?
- Depression/Sadness: Some people may feel a bit low when they get back home. This ‘home coming depression’ is so common it is regarded as a normal part of the recovery process. In the majority of patients, unless there are further acute events, anxiety and depression slowly reduce over time but sometimes rises or surfaces again when return to work is imminent. Poor concentration and memory problems can also cause concern. These may be due to a number of reasons but also usually improve over time.
- Why has this happened?
- Anger: Sometimes being angry with others, or yourself, is a way of covering up underlying fear and anxiety. Thoughts of why me, why now, are common as we begin to realise things we thought would never happen to us, do happen.
- I will never be the same
- Loss of confidence: Uncertainty about work prospects and perceived loss of role or respect within the family (if others take over your family tasks or become overprotective) may cause loss of confidence. Sexual problems associated with heart disease should be discussed with your GP/Nurse.
Pulse point
Some feel guilty, wrongly believing that their own actions might have caused the cardiac problem or they go on to develop a fear of provoking another heart attack.
Cardiac rehabilitation recognises this aspect of holistic care and encourages family involvement from the outset.
Page last reviewed: 27 Jul 2020
