COVID-19 impact on adults with congenital heart disease self-perceived vulnerability and coping

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic poses risk for worsened quality of life in patients with adult congenital heart disease. In a qualitative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted July 2020 to August 2021, we examined the pandemic’s impact on participants’ (N = 25) experiences with self-perception and coping. All had moderate or complex disease; median age 32 years. The pandemic altered some participants’ self-perception, including increased vulnerability beyond heart-attributed risk. Restrictions frequently prevented participants from using their usual coping strategies, forcing use of alternative methods. For an already at-risk population, these findings suggest the need for increased mental health awareness, assessment, and support.

Key Psychosocial Health Outcomes and Association With Resilience Among Patients With Adult Congenital Heart Disease

“…Finally, it is possible that the COVID pandemic may have impacted survey results given its recognized impact on mental health. 37 Data collection occurred after the end of most mandatory restrictions, though the omicron variant was still prevalent.…”

Resilience in children with congenital heart disease: a comparative study with health counterparts

“…Thus, the fear of an infection in this cohort might have been higher. In a qualitative thematic analysis in the form of semistructured interviews conducted from July 2020 to August 2021, Steiner and colleagues reported an increase in stress and health-related anxiety or depression among adults with CHD 28. Children with chronic illness are known to be more likely to develop psychosocial problems in such pandemic situations 29.…”

“…Also, psychiatric illnesses, such as depression or mood and anxiety disorders, are increased in adult patients with CHD,32 33 during the COVID-19 pandemic 28. Primary caregivers need to increasingly take into account the psychological needs of patients and families impacted by CHD.…”