A SUPPORT SYSTEM MAY HELP YOU RECOVER FROM YOUR HEART ATTACK

Whether you're recovering from a heart event, or are trying to make heart-healthy lifestyle changes, it's important not to feel isolated. From family and friends to support groups, there are lots of people who can – and want to – help.

TO BEAT YOUR HEART ATTACK

YOU NEED A SUPPORT SYSTEM

Key Takeaways

DON’T GO IT ALONE

Surround yourself with your support team to help you get back to being well.



YOU'RE ON A TEAM

Your heart attack support team includes your doctor, plus many others.



DON’T BE AFRAID TO REACH OUT

People who have lived through a heart attack can help with your recovery.

Having a support system can help you recover from a heart attack. Several beating hearts is better than one.


The Power of Support

The support of family and friends can help relieve your stress and anxiety, but consider reaching out beyond your immediate network. Different people – or groups – can help you in different ways:

  • Empathy: It can be reassuring to connect with others who are going through the same thing. For example, if you've suffered a heart event, a patient support group can help you adjust by seeing how other survivors are coping.
  • Motivation: Trying to revamp your eating habits? Hook up with a like-minded friend and become heart-healthy buddies. Or find a role model who's successfully lost weight, changed their diets, or maintained healthy exercise routines and can inspire you to keep going. The key is to build a support system that enables you to become your best self.
  • Accountability: No matter how driven you are, having someone else keep an eye on you can keep you on track. Make a deal with your buddy that if one of you slips up, the other will (gently) call you out on it.
  • Recognition: It's no fun to celebrate alone. As you make progress and meet goals, share your success with the people who've supported you and will be proud of your progress.

Finding the Support You Need Online

You’ll find a number of active heart attack support groups on Facebook simply by exploring the “groups” area. 

Not only will your heart attack support team help keep your body healthy, you’ll be amazed at what a difference they can make in your mental and emotional recovery.

So get connected!

HEART ATTACK SURVIVOR STORIES

Aspirin regimen products for recurrent heart attack prevention

Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen.