How To Support A Loved One After A Heart Attack

Contributed by Ryan Peterson.

According to the CDC, the leading cause of death for both men and women in the US is heart disease. That’s about 647,000 people every year. 

While medical treatments and interventions continue to improve outcomes for many people, the road to recovery is still a long one. If your partner or a member of your family has experienced a heart attack, then the support they need afterward in important for their long term recovery. 

Do your research

You need to be well informed on the subject of heart disease. Educate yourself on the condition so that you are not constantly asking questions they may not be comfortable answering. 

If they have a specific rehabilitation program or diet, learn this inside and out so you are able to help them follow it, even when they themselves don’t feel like it. 

Be prepared to support them in their new lifestyle which will probably mean big changes to diet and exercise habits as well as taking supplements, medications, and possibly Neuroscience Vitamins. Why not join them in their new healthy lifestyle and improve your health too? 

Emotional support and guidance 

In addition to the physical recovery, there is a mental journey. A person who survives a heart attack can react in many different ways. Some people feel they’ve been given a second chance at life, others feel like their life is irrevocably changed forever and it’s only a matter of time before something else bad happens. 

In all likelihood, they will probably go through a range of emotions while they are coming to terms with what has happened. Some of these emotions might manifest themselves in unpleasant behavior as the person verbally lashes out at those closest to them.  While this isn’t an excuse for someone to treat you terribly, you need to know where it’s coming from, especially if it’s out of character for them. 

It’s okay for you to feel a range of emotions too. 

Don’t sabotage them

You may or may not be following your loved one on their new healthy lifestyle. If you aren’t, do not attempt to sabotage their efforts and test their willpower unnecessarily. They need consistency if they are going to make real changes that will make a difference in their health. 

Socialize

Socialization is important for both of you. Looking after someone following a heart attack can be extremely isolating. There are many groups and forums that allow carers to come together and socialize. It’s important to have a support group, even if its an online one. 

Final thoughts

Recovering from a heart attack can be difficult and supporting someone through the aftermath is a huge undertaking. If you do find yourself in a caregiver situation, don’t forget to look after yourself so you can give the best care and support you possibly can.