What to do When Depression Follows a Heart Attack

by Paddy Kutz, Executive Director, Mental Health America of Licking County

In some cases, the trauma caused by a heart attack may actually trigger a major depression. Recent studies have indicated a high rate of depression among cardiac patients, which may increase their risk for further cardiac events.

Two possible reasons for this are: 1) depressed patients are less likely to stick to treatment and 2) the functional changes brought on by the symptoms of depression itself. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the “down” mood following a health crisis if it persists for more than several weeks and interferes with normal daily activities.

The “Blues” vs. Major Depression: feelings of depression are normal following a health crisis; however, when these symptoms are prolonged, serious problems can occur. In other words, a major depression is more than a brief or transitory change in mood. It is important to distinguish between normal feelings of sadness (“blues”) and the more serious condition of major depression. In the “blues” state, time heals, the mood lifts, and people continue to function. In contrast, major depression is not a passing mood; however with treatment, most individuals return to full and productive lives.

Know the Symptoms: Individuals experiencing 4 or more of the following symptoms for more than 2 weeks or whose usual functioning has become impaired by such symptoms, should seek an evaluation for depressive illness.

• Persistent low, anxious or “empty” feelings.
• Decreased energy, fatigue.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Appetite and weight changes (either gain or loss).
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism.
• Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts.
• Difficulty in concentrating, remembering, making decisions.
• Chronic aches or persistent bodily symptoms that are not caused by physical disease.

Message of Hope: With treatment, over 80% of individuals with depressive illness can improve and return to daily activities, usually in a matter of weeks. There is a choice of treatments available, including medications, therapy, or a combination of both. If you or someone you know shows signs of depression, it is important to talk with the physician and/or a local mental health professional.

Friends and Family Can Help: The very nature of depression can keep individuals from seeking help. Perhaps the most important way family and friends can help is by encouraging the individual to get appropriate treatment. Because depression destroys self-esteem and confidence, family and friends need to provide support, love and encouragement. In addition, they can help in the following ways:

1. Maintain as normal a relationship as possible.
2. Point out, without being critical or disapproving, distorted negative thinking.
3. Smile and encourage honest effort.
4. Acknowledge that the person is suffering and in pain.
5. Offer kind words and pay compliments.
6. Show that you care, respect, and value the depressed person.
7. Until the depression lifts, assist the individual in following the cardiac treatment regimen.

Remember there are many places in the community where people with depression can be diagnosed. In fact, Mental Health America of Licking County provides free depression screening that you can take to your doctor or you can screen for depression on-line at www.mhalc.org and click below the Danger sign located in the left hand column.

Mental Health America of Licking County is a member agency of Licking County United Way and the Community Mental Health & Recovery Board. My email is paddykutz@alink.com.