Yes. Peer support — connecting with others who have direct experience of living with an ICD or surviving a cardiac arrest — is one of the most valued forms of support for many people. Hearing how others have adjusted, managed their fears, and got on with their lives can be reassuring and practical in a way that clinical information alone cannot always provide.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest UK (SCAUK) offers peer support resources for both ICD patients and cardiac arrest survivors, including co-survivors. Visit suddencardiacarrestuk.org or get in touch directly to find out what is available.
Your cardiac team or GP may also be able to point you towards local support groups or cardiac rehabilitation programmes, which often have a peer support element. The British Heart Foundation’s network of Heart Support Groups provides in-person peer support in many areas of the UK.