The new specialist role, funded by cardiac charity Heartbeat, will support adults aged 25 and over in hospital who are living with heart failure. Rebecca Budge has taken up the heart failure psychological therapist role at University Hospital Southampton, and will offer care from diagnosis through to ongoing treatment, helping patients build confidence and coping strategies. Mark Ind, chief executive of Heartbeat, said: "A heart disease diagnosis can be life-changing at any age. READ MORE: Southampton Children's Hospital recognised as Centre of Excellence for cancer care"Alongside the physical impact, many patients experience emotional and psychological challenges. Ms Budge will work with patients to help them build resilience and manage the emotional impact of the condition, aiming to improve long-term outcomes.