Learning to manage your emotions, thoughts and behaviours
It is normal to have feelings like shock, denial, guilt, anger and sadness. Learn what to expect and get useful tips to help you manage.
Sudden intense stress increases the short-term risk of heart attack. Too much stress over a long time can also increase the risk of coronary artery disease.
If you experience too much anger it can damage your cardiac health. It is important to strike a balance — to manage your anger and express it in a healthy way, so that you don’t hurt your arteries and heart.
Recognizing and dealing with depression
People with coronary artery disease are at greater risk for having clinical depression. Depression increases the risk of developing heart disease and can even make heart disease worse. Know if you are depressed and get the right treatment.
There appears to be a moderate level of anxiety that is healthy. Anxiety levels that are too low or too high appear to worsen your heart disease.
Not getting enough sleep can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Many things, including medical conditions, pain and anxiety, can make it difficult to get enough sleep.
Talk to your healthcare team about any psychological problems. They can help to get you the right mental health services. Asking for help is a sign of courage!
Related information
Karen Narraway’s heart disease was labelled as anxiety and depression slowed her recovery. Read her story.
The Beat: Heart disease, stroke and your mental health (podcast)