Luxembourg University study helps heart attack survivors

Heart attack survivors are three times more likely to develop depression during the first six months after a heart attack, a study conducted by a Luxembourg University Professor has revealed.

Professor of Clinical Health Psychology Claus Vögele revealed that patients who feel seriously threatened by heart disease following a heart attack had a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms.

It is hoped that the conclusions from the study will contribute toward better heart patient management and help avert a worse prognosis.

Professor Vögele interviewed 36 cardiac patients between five and 15 days after their first heart attack, six weeks later and then again after a six-month interval. They were asked about fatigue levels, general health, disease-specific symptoms, work and family. Depression levels were assessed with questionnaires and clinical diagnoses from clinical interviews.

The results showed that a patient's response to their heart attack has an immediate impact on the likelihood of developing depression. For example, a patient who considered heart disease as a constant threat was more likely to experience depressive symptoms. Patients who focused on recovery and seeking support from friends and family, however, showed a much lower risk of developing depression.

"These results can be used to help patients to have a more positive outlook on life, even after such a dramatic and life-threatening event”, said Prof Vögele, who is head of a research group on self-regulation and health at the University of Luxembourg, adding: “Psychological interventions in the immediate time after the infarct, for instance during the first two weeks, may protect patients from developing depression, and thereby contribute to a smooth recovery."