Clinical Psychology in Cardiology in Wigan
More and more clinical psychologists are now working in medical settings as there is an increased awareness of the emotional distress that can be experienced in relation to physical health problems.
Many people who have experienced a heart attack, heart surgery or other cardiac difficulties tell us that this can have a major impact upon their everyday lives. As a result patients may describe feelings such as anxiety and low mood.
Clinical psychology input aims to help with negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, fear-avoidance and fears of recurrence. We will assess and work on how these are affecting you within your everyday life.
Following a referral, you will be offered an assessment session with the psychologist, and together you will consider your current coping and emotional wellbeing in relation to your cardiac difficulties.
Talking with someone about how you are thinking and feeling is often the first step to identifying how things can then change. If it is appropriate, you may be offered a number of talking therapy sessions to help you manage any difficult emotions you may be having and to increase your sense of coping and come to terms with your experience of cardiac health concerns.
Who is our service for?
Our service is for people living in Wigan who may benefit from input around emotional wellbeing and support around their cardiac health.
Who do we work in partnership with?
We work in partnership with cardiology colleagues, such as consultant cardiologists, cardiac nurses, physiologists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists.
How to access our service?
You can be referred to the service by a member of the Wrightington Wigan and Leigh Hospital Cardiology team involved in your care.
What will happen at your first appointment?
Your first appointment can last up to one hour, and will be an initial assessment of your emotional wellbeing and coping in relation to your cardiac condition. We understand that you may feel upset or nervous about coming to the appointment and we're trained to help you to feel comfortable in sharing your experiences. By the end of the appointment, we will discuss possible options around ongoing psychology sessions should this be appropriate to your needs.
As a service user, relative or carer using our services, sometimes you may need to turn to someone for help, advice, and support.
Find resources for carers and service users Contact the Trust