PsyCardio
Mental Health After a Heart Attack
Enrollment status: completed
A heart attack is not only a physical strain but, for many who experience it, also a significant psychological burden. The Germany-wide online study PsyCardio therefore examined the psychosocial consequences of a heart attack and the psychological support provided to patients during their hospital stay.
The aim of the study was to examine psychological distress such asdepression, anxiety, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder following a heart attack and to identify potential associated risk factors. In addition, the study examined how patients perceived the psychological support they received during their hospital stay.
The PsyCardio study has now been completed, and the results were published in the journal BMC Cardiovascular Disorders . The analysis provides important insights into the extent of psychological distress following a heart attack and also shows how this is addressed during hospitalization.
Study Results
The results show that psychological distress is common following a heart attack: More than half of the respondents (58.8%) exhibited relevant symptoms of at least one psychological condition.
Anxiety symptoms and depressive symptoms were particularly common; symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder also occurred in some of those affected. At the same time, only about one-third of respondents reported being asked about their mental well-being during their hospital stay. The findings thus underscore the importance of paying closer attention to mental health after a heart attack and of integrating psychosocial aspects more fully into cardiovascular care.
More about the results and the scientific publication in our article: Results of the PsyCardio Study
Many thanks to all participantswho contributed to this study with their experiences and thereby provided important insights into the psychological consequences of a heart attack.
Information and Support for Those Affected
Based on the findings of the PsyCardio study, we have developed an informational brochure for people experiencing psychological distress following a heart attack. It provides information on possible signs of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress and includes brief self-assessments to help readers get a sense of where they stand. In addition, those affected will find practical tips for daily life as well as resources for professional support.
Download the brochure “A Heart Attack Affects More Than Just the Body”
The self-tests included in this brochure are intended as a preliminary guide and are not a substitute for a medical or psychological diagnosis.