How should I overcome the fear of heart attack?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 23 year old guy. I am getting panic all the time. My father died of a heart attack three years ago. I have only my mother with me and my bonding is not well with her. I was too close to my father. I am obese and having high BP too. Usually, I do not share my feelings with mom. It was my dad with whom I used to share everything. He was more like a friend to me. I feel like I will die of heart attack. I met a cardiologist today and he gave medicines for my BP. I feel some discomfort in my left arm. How should I overcome the fear? I am a social person, but whenever I stay alone, I get these feelings.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your fear. You have made a good start by showing a physician and started on medications for your blood pressure. It is good to be aware of your health. I am sure that they already advised lifestyle changes, so I will not go into its depths. Every morning, when you wake up, you need to tell yourself that you will be happy, lose weight and work towards it. That way your mind will slowly be diverted to change your thinking to weight loss and happy, which will also drive you and reduce these thoughts of heart attack. Whenever the thought comes to your mind, substitute with weight loss and happiness. It will take time, but you will gradually see the difference in your thoughts. Every morning, it will be helpful if you do deep breathing exercises for at least 15 minutes concentrating on your breath. Also, since you cannot express to anyone, start keeping a personal diary and express all your thoughts and fears. Writing down helps to vent out and will improve your positive thinking and help think rationally, which will help you in dealing life. Break down the goals you make into steps, be it lifestyle changes or anything else. Exercise not only helps lose weight, but releases happy feeling substances that will reduce your fears. Also, keep yourself busy, maybe learning something new, doing a course, etc. You will see a difference after you incorporate it in your daily life. Thank you.