Myocardial infarction and post-traumatic stress disorder

Abstract

Studies concerning the development of a post-traumatic stress disorder related to severe illness are scarce. The confrontation with myocardial infarction may be a very stressful event. Twenty-three patients consecutively admitted for first myocardial infarction were studied. After two years 1 of 18 survivors had been suffering from a partial post-traumatic stress disorder. Similarities and differences in the psychological reactions following potential traumatic events are discussed.