Doncaster man learns techniques to manage anxiety after a heart attack

Dene Woods, aged 58, was treated for a heart attack just before last Christmas and as part of his rehabilitation his cardiac nurse signposted him to a six-weeks long course run by Doncaster’s Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) Long Term Conditions team.

Dene, an electrician from Edenthorpe, said: “I have experienced anxiety problems for quite a while and they became more prominent after I returned home from hospital. I signed up for the cardiac course, which is run as weekly group sessions online during Covid, and found it really supportive to be amongst other people who have similar health issues.

“I have learned various breathing and relaxation techniques to help me take control when I become worried and anxious and it’s really helping.

“My wife works for the MIND charity, she encouraged me to seek help and I encourage anybody in the same situation to do so. More people than you realise suffer from common mental health issues, it’s nothing to be ashamed of and help is freely available.”

Jane Crothers, Senior Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner said: “Being diagnosed with heart problems can impact on people’s mental health but being part of this group really helps them to come to terms with, and manage, their condition better.

“We normally meet with a group of eight to ten patients at Cantley Health Centre but the face-to-face sessions were suspended when the pandemic started and we have now relaunched online via video."

For more information ring 01302 379563.

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