Managing Heart Disease

Heart disease doesn’t have to end someone’s life, and women with heart disease can still achieve their dreams. Hundreds of thousands of women have learned to make healthy changes in their everyday lives to manage heart disease.

But let’s face it, heart disease is a lot to deal with. Doctor appointments on a regular basis. Getting hooked up to a bunch of machines and having tests done. Watching what you eat. Making sure you are staying active. Monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol. All of these things can take their toll, making the management side of your heart disease diagnosis unsettling.

Tackling your emotions

Getting emotional support from others is an important step on your road to recovery. So cut yourself some slack and learn to be your own biggest cheerleader.

Women often take on the role of caregiver and prioritize the needs of others above their own. Remember to put your own health and well-being first so you can be there for the ones who depend on you.

Toss pride out the window

That may sound easy, but the reality is: it can be hard to ask for help. If you feel like this is too much to deal with on your own, put your pride aside and seek assistance. Get counseling, turn to support groups – whatever feels right for you. Having a support system outside of your immediate friends and family will make dealing with heart disease less stressful. And remember: You’re not alone.

Go Red Together

No matter how hard it gets, and no matter how many times you feel like giving up, remember you can beat this. Because with the right information, education and care, heart disease in women can be treated, prevented and even ended. That’s because women who Go Red can take charge of their health and recovery.

• Learn to love food labels. Focus on filling your life with healthy eating choices.
• Find ways to stay active. You don’t have to become a gym rat, but you do have to get moving.
• Go easy on yourself. Try to manage your own expectations and don’t expect miracles overnight.
• De-stress. Whatever puts you in a calm and happy zone, find the time to do it.
• Don’t think you have to change your plans. Ultimately, being a survivor means living. So, try to resume a normal lifestyle.
• Stay social and connected to friends. Spending time with friends socializing or having fun can help support the health of your mind, heart and body.