Psychologic stress in myocardial infarction.

During the acute phase of myocardial infarction, patients may experience anxiety, depression, denial and decompensation. Their ability to master the painful aspects associated with the stress of this severe illness and to convert defenses to beneficial coping directions depends on their character traits and effective psychiatric intervention. Sequelae to myocardial infarction include invalidism and prolonged disruption of the patient's family life and development.