Cardiac patients 'could be missed out on mental health support'
Friday 10th July 2009
Cardiac patients and their families may be missing out on support concerning potential mental health problems.
This is according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), which cited figures that suggest that up to 20 per cent of people who have acute cardiac events go on to suffer a major depressive episode within a few weeks.
In addition, a further quarter experience milder depression, the charity said.
To help cardiac patients, the BHF has established a Heart HelpLine which people can use to get support and information about mental health problems.
However, the organisation reported concerns that relatively few patients are using the service.
BHF cardiac Nurse Ellen Mason said: "There are hidden costs to heart disease that most people wouldn't think of - the impact that it can have on their jobs, income, family life, and mental wellbeing."
Anyone who is concerned about heart disease can call the charity's helpline, she added.
The BHF exists to invest in pioneering research, support and care for heart patients and to provide information to help people reduce their risk of dying prematurely from cardiac complications.
Written by Martin Lambert
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