Regaining comfidemcea

[Carlysimon]

I had mitral valve repair two years ago and am still struggling with confidence, my family tell me the procedure I had was nothing and I should pull my self together as there are people much worse off, this does not help,I think I need some help asi feel very isolated

[Suzy1954]

Hi. I felt very similar after my mitral valve repair. It was nearly 20 years ago but I remember losing my confidence. I went to my GP and he asked me to come in and speak to a therapist. Just getting all my private feelings out about feeling like a failure and a nuisance for being ill in the first place really helped. The therapist made me a follow up appointment but I cancelled it as a couple of weeks later I started to feel like my old self. I’m sorry your family aren’t very supportive but maybe a trip to your GP might help. Good luck 👍

[VelvetSky]

Hi, so sorry you aren’t getting enough family support. Do you have a heart failure nurse, they can help reassure you. I’ve found aiming at achieving small steps to restore confidence helps. I’ve recently managed to do some all day art classes, when you are interested and enjoying yourself it really helps.

My target for this week is to go on a bus to see an exhibition, I’ve been wary of public transport since a HA, I have the stupid worry that I might be ill and not able to get off the bus.

[Bagrat]

All the feelings a heart op generates serve a very good purpose at first. It ensures you take baby steps but any isolation from what you would normally be doing has its effect.

I'm sorry your family can't see things from your perspective . The suggestion to seek counselling is a good one. I had a time when I was having increasing anxiety issues. These stemmed from my husband's heart issues before I joined the club in person! I saw a counsellor 3 times and it turned me round completely. It's very hard to admit you need help but once over that hurdle you are on the up