Partners of heart attack victims have an increased risk of depression and anxiety, even if their partner survives.

A Danish study, published in the European Heart Journal, found that in the year after a spouse suffers from a heart attack, partners were three times more likely to start taking anti-depressants.

Doctors believe the reason is due to the shock someone feels when their partner suddenly faces a potentially fatal illness which they say can lead to symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dr Fosbol, lead cardiologist in the study said:-
“I believe treatment of an acute event also should include screening the spouse for possible psychological effects and a plan should be in place for how to take care of this, if indeed the spouse is severely affected.”

The BHF's Senior Cardiac Nurse, Maureen Talbot, said:-
“We know that people can feel anxious or helpless when a loved one has a heart attack. It is essential they receive the emotional and practical support they need during this often traumatic time."

Link:   The European Heart Journal     ;   The Scotsman

[Ed - This must hold true for Heart Failure patients and their families - so spare a thought and offer support to our other half]