When someone has a cardiac arrest, the focus is naturally on the person who survived. But the people around them — partners, family members, close friends — are also profoundly affected. If you care about someone who has had a cardiac arrest, this leaflet is written for you.
The I Care leaflet provides guidance on how to support your loved one through their recovery, and equally importantly, how to look after yourself through a process that can be emotionally and physically exhausting.
What co-survivors experience
SCA UK uses the term ‘co-survivor’ to describe the partners, family members, and close friends of cardiac arrest survivors. Co-survivors often experience their own trauma response — anxiety, hypervigilance, sleep disturbance, and a persistent fear that it might happen again. These experiences are real, valid, and deserving of support.
At the same time, many co-survivors find themselves in a caring role that requires enormous energy and patience. Understanding what your loved one is going through, and why they might behave differently than before, can make a significant difference to the recovery of both of you.
How to support recovery
Recovery from cardiac arrest is rarely linear. Survivors may experience fatigue, cognitive difficulties, emotional changes, and anxiety. Pacing is important. So is maintaining open communication with the clinical team and seeking support for yourself as well as your loved one.
SCA UK offers a community where co-survivors can connect with others in the same situation. You are welcome to join us. Further information is also available on our I Care About a Survivor page.
Download the leaflet
This leaflet is available as a free PDF download. It is designed to be read on screen or printed, and can be shared with other family members and friends.