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Published on: April 25, 2014
[Post-traumatic stress disorder after a myocardial infarction]
Laetitia Petracca1, Stéphane Saillant1, Roxane Stahl1
1Centre d'urgences psychiatriques, Centre neuchâtelois de psychiatrie, 2000 Neuchâtel.
Revue Medicale Suisse
|June 18, 2026
Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after a heart attack. This article helps primary care physicians identify and manage PTSD in myocardial infarction patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychiatry
- Primary Care Medicine
Background:
- Acute coronary syndrome, including myocardial infarction (MI), is a recognized traumatic event.
- MI can trigger feelings of life-threatening danger and helplessness, predisposing individuals to PTSD.
- Existing research estimates PTSD prevalence post-MI and identifies risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To increase awareness of post-myocardial infarction PTSD.
- To equip primary care physicians with tools for identifying affected patients.
- To guide physicians in directing patients toward appropriate mental health care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on PTSD following myocardial infarction.
- Analysis of predisposing factors for PTSD in cardiac patients.
- Guideline development for primary care physician identification and referral.
Main Results:
- Myocardial infarction is a significant traumatic stressor.
- Predisposing factors for PTSD post-MI have been identified in previous studies.
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing PTSD in cardiac patients.
Conclusions:
- Primary care physicians play a vital role in recognizing PTSD after MI.
- Awareness and targeted screening can improve patient outcomes.
- Timely referral to mental health services is essential for managing PTSD.
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