The majority of heart attack patients experience some degree of depression and anxiety. To combat this complication, both the doctor and the nurses must communicate with the patient in an open and frank manner so that the patient can air feelings and have all questions answered during the time in the hospital. A social worker may have to be involved in some cases, and supportive home visits, advice on job orientation, and discussions regarding financial matters may be necessary. Two weekly visits to an understanding family doctor may help to dissipate depression with the recognition that all is not lost. The doctor should reassure the patient that depression and anxiety with the associated weakness and tiredness are normal and will be alleviated with time. It takes six weeks for the damaged muscle to heal and form a firm scar. During the same six weeks, anxiety and depression dissipate in the majority of patients. The first four weeks will be tough. Thereafter, the assistance of an exercise program, the ability to drive again, and the return of sexual activity may help to lift the despair. Time heals all wounds, including the muscle damage and psycholog¬ical insults. A few (less than 1% of patients) require anti-depressant drugs. These are nonaddicting and can be very useful when given as a single bedtime dose for 3 to a maximum of 12 weeks. An exercise rehabilitation program is useful in many respects and is of definite assistance in the management of most heart attack patients (see the chapter Depression and the Heart).