MyHeart MyLife digital support program

New 12-week program to stop Australians having a second heart attack

The Heart Foundation is today launching a new program aimed at reducing the likelihood of a person experiencing a repeat heart attack or other heart event.

The MyHeart MyLife program is:

• A free, tailored 12-week digital program that delivers evidence-based heart health information, expert tips, practical tools and support in the form of text messages, emails, and online content to support Australian adults living with heart disease on their journey to a healthier heart.
• A program that gives patients and their carers will have access to an online peer support group that addresses the critical need for better mental health and wellbeing support and guidance post-event, ensuring patients are not left to navigate their recovery alone.

After a heart attack, survivors often feel worried, confused or overwhelmed and struggle to find reliable sources of information about their condition and recovery.

The Heart Foundation’s Healthcare Programs Manager, Natalie Raffoul, said the new program addressed a need among survivors, carers and healthcare professionals to ensure people have ongoing support when they leave hospital, to help keep them out of hospital.

“What makes this program unique is that we have tailored it to provide patients with the most relevant information, when they need it the most. People will move through different ‘phases’ of recovery and their needs change over time,” Ms Raffoul said.

Recognising that where people live in Australia influences their heart health outcomes, the program also has information specially tailored for people living in rural and remote areas.

“Data shows that Australians living in some rural and remote locations experience higher rates of cardiovascular disease-related hospitalisation and death, something we seek to address with this program.”

How the My Heart My Life program works

1. Any Australian adult who has experienced a heart attack, angina or heart disease diagnosis can join the program for free. Whether it’s at the hospital bedside before discharge or years after diagnosis, the MyHeart MyLife program is available.
2. The program will tailor the information and support delivered over 12 weeks according to details provided by the patient.
3. The program will deliver evidence-based heart health information, expert tips, practical tools and support in the form of text messages, emails, and online content.
4. Participants will have access to an online community of thousands of others living with a heart condition, to share their story and motivate each other's recovery.

Key benefits of the program include:

• Expert tips: Participants will receive practical tips from leading cardiologists, GPs and psychologists on living well with heart disease.
• Empowerment: Helping participants understand their condition and how to manage it effectively.
• Connection: Providing a platform to connect with others who share similar experiences.
• Continuous support: Offering ongoing practical advice and encouragement through various channels.
• Mental health resources: Support through gentle prompts to check in on your emotional and mental wellbeing and know where to access more help if you need it.

Friends and family are also encouraged to join the program to support their loved ones. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of recovery, both physical and emotional, are addressed, helping patients return to their daily lives with confidence and improved health.

For more information or to join the MyHeart MyLife program, visit myheartmylife.org.au