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It’s time to advocate for yourself and your care. |
Developed with Black and Latina members of the heart failure community, including Dr. Contreras of Mount Sinai Health System, and women living with heart failure, Tannie and Lupe, the Ultimate Guide is a comprehensive overview of tips, insights and examples that focus on helping you care for yourself and your heart health by empowering your mind, body and outcomes while still preserving daily rituals and family traditions.
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Many women find it difficult to prioritize their own health. That’s why Tannie is encouraging women just like her to listen to what their heart needs, ask for support and take control of their heart failure care.
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Heart failure can also severely impact your mental health—1 in 3 people report experiencing increased depressive symptoms. While it can feel daunting or even taboo to talk about mental health, there is no shame in asking for help or reaching out to your support system.
Living with a chronic illness like heart failure can be mentally and physically taxing. Practicing meditation, mindfulness or other acts of mental self-care can help you improve your coping skills.
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“All of my victories are big. I feel a sense of pride within myself when I accomplish tasks that I couldn't do before.”
Living with heart failure since 2015
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Know that you don’t have to walk this path alone. Support can come from many places—whether it’s friends and family, doctors or even online support groups like WomenHeart and Mended Hearts.
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“I might call a friend or family member if I need to hear encouraging words. Getting out of my house and seeing people helps my mental health and makes me feel less alone.”
Living with heart failure since 2021
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A strong body looks different for everyone, and listening to your body can help you find the right routine that supports your heart health.
Making dietary changes—such as reducing sodium intake and increasing heart-healthy foods—and implementing low-impact exercises into your daily routine can help reduce heart failure symptoms.
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“Every great journey starts with one step. Diet and activity can be hard to change, but we can always start with one little change every day and build from that.”
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Find fun ways to get your daily steps in. The more you enjoy the activity, the more likely you are to be consistent.
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“My definition of healthy living has changed since my diagnosis. Now, being healthy means living a somewhat active lifestyle.”
Living with heart failure since 2015
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Get helpful advice on prioritizing heart failure care with practical lifestyle tips and more.
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You know your body best, and advocating for yourself is the best way to ensure your voice is heard. By asking questions, tracking your symptoms and working with your doctors, you can take charge of your health.
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“As I manage my condition, I am able to better understand my body and know when something is off.”
Living with heart failure since 2021
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Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor to repeat or re-explain something. Your understanding is important and engaging in a two-way conversation can lead to better care.
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“It’s okay to ask your doctors questions. They are the experts, but not the experts of your body.”
Living with heart failure since 2015
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Bring an extra pair of ears, such as a friend or family member, to a doctor’s appointment to help you ask questions or clarify information.
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“I am honored to take care of my women. I think when they see me as a Latina woman trying to take care of them, they understand we are a team, and I make sure to communicate that we are in this together.”
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Heart failure can feel like a lonely path to walk, but no matter where you are in your heart failure journey, you are not alone.
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“Heart failure is not a death sentence. Hearing ‘failure’ makes you think it’s the end, but it’s not.”
Living with heart failure since 2015
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“In your family, prioritizing yourself as a woman with heart failure is crucial for your overall well-being. By taking care of yourself first, you can better manage your condition and be there for others. Self-care is not selfish—it’s necessary for your health.”
Living with heart failure since 2021
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“Women are often worried about their kids or partners, or what people may think, and they will always sacrifice their own health for the well-being of others. But I want to emphasize that taking care of yourself is also a way to love others.”
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Caring for someone with heart failure? Check out our care partner resources for tips on how to provide care while still taking time for yourself.
