Living with Heart Disease… Your Emotional Health
Research has shown emotional well-being leads to longer, healthier lives for people with heart disease. It is just as important as your physical health. The next few pages will teach you how to deal with the emotional concerns experienced by people suffering from heart disease.
Depression Depression can make you feel unhappy, down or sad every day. You may lose interest in hobbies, activities and people you used to enjoy. Depression may also cause you to: • Feel worthless, guilty or helpless • Feel hopeless about the future • Have trouble sleeping or sleep more than usual • Not feel like eating or eat more than usual • Feel tired, weak or low in energy • Have trouble concentrating, remembering or making decisions • Withdraw from family and friends Remember: Depression is a treatable problem and is very common among people with heart disease. If you have signs of depression, talk with your Cardiac Rehab Team or health care provider
Stay Involved You’ve gone through a life-altering event and this is the time you need support from friends and family. Find people who: • Will listen when you need to talk • Give you advice when needed • Are affectionate toward you
What Can You Do? • Keep doing the hobbies you enjoy • Try a new activity • Stay involved with your family and friends • Join a heart disease support group
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