Messages to others

Despite agreeing that there is more awareness about high blood pressure today, many patients still felt that high blood pressure (hypertension) was a private matter and rarely spoken about.

Describes how he perceives high blood pressure as a taboo subject.

There was a general reluctance to identify with others having high blood pressure (hypertension). This may explain the fact that when respondents were asked if they felt they had something in common with other people with high blood pressure (hypertension), most said no. On the other hand, one male patient felt that men had problems sharing experiences, but when his high blood pressure (hypertension) was openly acknowledged he found it reassuring to know he was not alone.

Describes his experience of discussing his hypertension with others.

Another patient reiterated this point in regard to sharing within the black population and considered a forum (as in this site) to be an excellent way of sharing.

Explains he wishes for those with hypertension to have more education and to share information.

As for talking to others about hypertension, several people interviewed did not openly disclose that they had high blood pressure (hypertension) as they felt the discovery altered their image in the eyes of others. One interviewee mentioned they felt self-conscious about making a fuss over a condition where there were no evident symptoms.

Explains why she doesn't discuss hypertension with her friends.

It came apparent that often children of those with high blood pressure (hypertension) had some anxiety.

Highlights his children's attitude towards his hypertension.

Sometimes the advice of these and well meaning friends could alarm rather than reassure.

Describes her experiences of discussing hypertension with others.

Overall, however, sufferers felt that talking about their high blood pressure (hypertension) could generally can give valuable support.

Comments on the support he has from two friends, both pharmacists, one of whom has high blood pressure.

Mention who they talk to about hypertension.

For more information on high blood pressure see our Resources and Information section.

Last reviewed December 2011.

Last updated February 2010.