The Prevalence and Predictors of Anxiety and Depression in Adolescents with Heart Disease

Wang Q et al. – Depression and anxiety were found to be common in a relatively well adolescent population with heart disease. None of those affected had been clinically assessed and appropriately treated by a mental health professional. Protective factors against depression and anxiety need be developed as well as appropriate assessment and intervention.

Methods

• A cohort of adolescents was recruited from an ambulatory cardiology clinic at a tertiary center and from such clinics run privately.
• Questionnaires included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Life Orientation Test-Revised, and Sense of Coherence-13.

Results

• A total of 119 adolescents aged 12-20 years were recruited.
• Most of the participants (90%) had congenital heart disease. Nearly all (98%) were in New York Heart Association Functional Classification class I. Approximate one-half of the participants had had previous surgeries and/or catheter interventions.
• Eleven patients (9%) were above the cut-off score for likely depression, and 32 (27%) had likely anxiety.
• A feeling of optimism was the most significant factor in reducing anxiety and depression, followed by good social support and a strong sense of coherence.

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