While you are getting used to your post-heart attack lifestyle, it s important to keep motivated. You can set up a reward system, perhaps buying yourself a new book when you re able to climb a flight of stairs without getting winded. The fifth, and hopefully final, stage of your post-heart attack behavior modification will be maintenance . Naturally, this means staying the course once you ve adapted to a healthier lifestyle. If you re sincere about making the most of your life with your damaged heart, it s vital you never proceed past maintenance.
Some experts say maintenance never stops, but becomes less vigilant.
In any case, this is the only life you have, so be aware of the urge to stop your progress. Deal with your emotions. It is very common for the heart attack survivor, suddenly faced by their mortality, to become deeply depressed or angry. Family members are likely to experience these feelings as well. This is generally a part of the healing process and will resolve with time.