A heart attack is a life-changing event. Surviving it is not the end of the experience — it’s just the beginning. Most people will make a physical recovery, but many will be surprised by the emotional effects of a heart attack.
It is natural to be shocked by what has happened. Common feelings include:
• Fear. Often, people who have suffered a heart attack are afraid that it will happen again. They worry about going back to work, wonder if they will ever feel in control again, and feel anxiety about the pain coming back. They may think that any exercise could be fatal. These are all normal fears that people have to work through.
• Depression. This feeling is so common that it is actually considered part of the recovery process. It takes a while to come to terms with the fear and anxiety over having the heart attack. People may feel like their life is over. It’s not.
• Anger. If you have led a healthy lifestyle, you may even feel angry. After all, how could a person do “all the right things” and still have a heart attack? It doesn’t seem fair, but anger is stressful and needs to be dealt with.
• Guilt. If you did have some bad habits like smoking and not exercising, you may think the heart attack was your fault. But guilt doesn’t make anything better. Focus on making the changes you need to.
The important thing is to recognize that recovery from a heart attack will be both physical and emotional. It’s impossible to ignore the emotional roller coaster. Take advantage of the support of your family and friends. Take things one day at a time.
If depression becomes overwhelming, get help. Your doctor can adjust your medications and recommend counseling. Many people have gone through the same thing and support groups are available where you can hear how others have adjusted to life after a heart attack. You really are not alone.
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