Kozier & Erb's Fundamentals of Nursing 10th Edition by Shirlee Snyder,Audrey Berman,Geralyn Frandsen

Exercise 4

Jerry and Joe have both suffered heart attacks. Jerry, upon advice from his primary care provider, started exercising, changed his dietary intake, entered stress reduction classes, and returned to work 6 weeks after his heart attack. He has a positive outlook, is doing well, and talks about being "well." Joe also changed his dietary habits and started exercising. However, Joe has been unable to quit smoking even though he wants to and has been advised to do so. Joe is frequently despondent, is very fearful of having another heart attack, has not yet returned to work, and frequently talks about being "ill."
What factors may have prevented Joe from developing the same positive outlook and actions that Jerry was able to take in regard to his illness?