Being over-protective after a spouse had a heart attack or a major operation could be a serious error. You should give support without taking over your spouse's role, says the Heart Foundation of South Africa.

Take action:
Avoid being over-protective by: not doing everything yourself – if your partner is afraid of doing something that you know would not be detrimental to his health, try to boost his self-confidence; making deals with your partner (e.g. "If you do some exercise, I will prepare supper"); contacting your doctor or rehabilitation nurse – gain confidence by being informed; not being the full-time nurse – find other hobbies to keep busy; taking a break – invite friends or family to come and stay if you can't get away.

Visit our Heart Centre for more info.

 - (Health24, March 2005)