Looking at Life Differently After a Heart Attack: Post-traumatic Growth in Patients with Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Myocardial Infarction (MI), commonly known as heart attack, is the primary cause of death in the world along with other coronary diseases and it is a significant trauma because of its unexpected and life-threatening nature. After traumatic experiences not only psychological problems but also positive changes such as posttraumatic growth (PTG), which is characterized by positive changes in attribution of self, others and the world, are experienced. The current study reviewed literature to combine the findings of empirical studies examining PTG in patients with MI. It is aimed to draw attention to the concept of PTG associated with this common and risky disease and to gain insight about developing psychological interventions specified to PTG in MI patients. Considering the findings, it can be said that PTG is experienced in patients with MI to a great extent and mostly in the manner of appreciating life with changes in world view and prioritizing spirituality. Moreover, MI is related to various variables such as illness perception, social support, sociodemographic variables and personality traits particularly extraversion. Besides rationalization, cognitive coping, positive-religious and problem-focused coping strategies contribute to PTG in patients with MI. Keywords Posttraumatic Growth, Myocardial Infarction, Heart Attack, Positive Changes, Coping Styles