"These people will help you to change your life for the better"

In 2023 I had two heart attacks 3 weeks apart. With no previous symptoms or history. In both cases I had to have stents fitted and I am now taking 8 tablets a day to maintain. The heart attacks were a direct consequence of workplace stress. After the heart attacks I was left with severe panic attacks, anxiety and depression. I have since been prescribed medication for anxiety. I was at the point where I could not leave the house. I was convinced that I would have another heart attack. I literally dare not go anywhere in case I had another attack. I was convinced that if (when) I did that I would die due to Medical Staff not being able to get to me in time.

I started my journey with the Primary Care Mental Health Hub - North Locality in October 2024. At that time I had to be driven to my appointments. Since October 2024 I have learned how to recognise the onset of the panic symptoms, what the triggers are and how to manage them. I have gone from not leaving the house to being able to visit places that I know / am familiar / comfortable with. Initially this was only places I knew well, that were close to a Hospital and where I knew that a defibrillator was on site.

In January 2025 I had another MI, this was later classed as an Angina attack rather than a heart attack. So even though I was feeling better, I was still struggling with my panic symptoms. I am now able to plan outings a few days in advance and manage the anxiety symptoms leading up to the outing. I am able to drive unaided to my counselling sessions. I am booked to go on a family holiday in a few weeks time which is something I would never have even thought of doing before my counselling sessions started.

The counselling sessions and the help and support I have received have quite literally changed my life. I actually found myself looking forward to the weekly counselling sessions. I felt that they were my ‘safe place’ and that while I was there nothing could hurt me. At first they were the only time I left the house. Gradually, over time, I have learned the coping mechanisms I need to get me through each day. I do not suffer from panic attacks any more. I do still struggle with anxiety but nowhere near as bad as before. I am not 100% back to where I was before the heart attacks (and don’t think I ever will be) but I am so much better than I was thanks to the help, support and guidance I have received from the Primary Health Care Team. I have gone from a very dark place in my life to where I am now happier, brighter and looking forward to the future. In summary, I just want to take this opportunity to thank the Primary Health Care Team for all the help, support, guidance and encouragement they have given me over the last few months and say that without you I would literally not be where I am today.

And to anyone who is reading this and thinking about reaching out to the team, please do it. The hardest thing you will ever do is admit to yourself that you need help, but it will be the best thing you ever do. These people will help you to change your life for the better. For ever.