Health-related anxiety is common for people with congenital heart conditions. Psychologist Adrienne Kovacs talks about what it is, why it shows up—and how to manage it.
An excellent interview, many thanks! Insightful and thoughtful understanding and practical advice to deal with the anxiety and stress that is so common with the heart conditions that are a part of our lives.
I was diagnosed with my CHD just over two years ago. Almost a year ago, I survived double pneumonia (with an additional significant pleural effusion). I feel like I’m hyper vigilant with my health (I’m also a T2 DM) to the detriment of my mental health at times.
This is an important and insightful article highlighting the anxiety challenges faced by adults with congenital heart disease. Dr. Kovacs, what steps can be taken early in the journey to help prevent the onset of anxiety?
I get anxious when my OHS anniversaries come up and prior to my annual checkups. Considering procedures for non-heart related issues can be very stressful, i.e. hipnreplacement surgery even though I an in great pain and reduced mobility. What if I die, get an infection.? Sigh. Thanks for thiscarticle.
An excellent interview, many thanks! Insightful and thoughtful understanding and practical advice to deal with the anxiety and stress that is so common with the heart conditions that are a part of our lives.
Thanks for reading!
I was diagnosed with my CHD just over two years ago. Almost a year ago, I survived double pneumonia (with an additional significant pleural effusion). I feel like I’m hyper vigilant with my health (I’m also a T2 DM) to the detriment of my mental health at times.
Thanks for sharing, Beth! It's a lot to go through.
This is an important and insightful article highlighting the anxiety challenges faced by adults with congenital heart disease. Dr. Kovacs, what steps can be taken early in the journey to help prevent the onset of anxiety?
This is a great question!
Great article! I’m really happy medical anxiety is being discussed more and more! Sharing this to my Instagram stories! 🙌🏻❤️
Appreciate the share, Elise!
I get anxious when my OHS anniversaries come up and prior to my annual checkups. Considering procedures for non-heart related issues can be very stressful, i.e. hipnreplacement surgery even though I an in great pain and reduced mobility. What if I die, get an infection.? Sigh. Thanks for thiscarticle.
Yes, the anxiety shows up in non-heart related scenarios, for sure. Thanks for sharing.