Cardiac Rehabilitation: Emotional Issues

Having CAD (coronary artery disease, or heart disease) can be stressful. You may have worries about your health and future. If you ignore these feelings, they can slow your recovery. Get the help and support you need from family and friends. Support groups are also a good source of encouragement.

Focus on your goals

Keep in mind that recovery takes time. Your heart and body may need time to heal from the stressful event of a heart attack, coronary stents, or surgery. Often your body needs a chance to adjust to new medicines that are routinely started in treating coronary disease. But gradually you should be feeling better. Focus on goals that are important to you. These may include returning to work, being active again, or spending more time with your family. Track your progress by keeping a record on a calendar or in a journal.

Talk about your feelings

After having heart problems or surgery, it’s normal to feel depressed and angry. You may have trouble accepting that you’re ill. Your family or partner may feel some of the same emotions. Discuss your feelings openly. Talk about what you plan to do for yourself and how your family can help. Support each other through each stage of your recovery.

Prepare to make changes

It is common to feel some denial, but the sooner you accept your health condition, the better. Unless you make some changes in your life, you are at high risk for more problems. At first, it may be hard for you to face making lifestyle changes. Your family and friends can work with you to help make these changes easier.

Know that you are not alone

Making changes isn’t easy. It helps to have a support system you can rely on. Start with your cardiac rehab center. It’s a place where people understand what you’re going through. You can talk to others about your feelings and experiences. You can ask questions about goals and building a healthier lifestyle. And you can work with your cardiac rehab team to set goals and stay on track. Turn to your family and friends for additional support. Open communication is the best way to find support in those around you.