Counselling for Heart Disease

Coronary Heath Disease reminds the leading cause of premature death in most western countries, accounting, in the UK, for 40 percent of deaths in men and 10 percent of deaths in women, aged between 45 and 64 years. The psychological and social impact of heart disease can have adverse effects on the individual, the family and the disease itself, whilst a heart attack might involve not only an immediate threat to life, but also loss of a sense of control. This book provides a practical framework for supporting and helping the patient and the family both in the acute medical setting and in the longer term in the community. It focuses on skills and techniques needed to provide important information, reduce stress and to set realistic goals during rehabilitation. The role of open communication between helper and patient is emphasized and demonstrated using examples and case studies.This book has been written for all concerned with heart disease: professionals and lay helpers, clinicians and non-clinicians. The Foreword is by Dr Alastair McDonald of the Cardiac Department, The Royal London Hospital, who also acted as medical advisor for the book.