Post-traumatic stress disorder among COVID-19-affected high-risk cardiac patients

Abstract

Background During the first coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) wave there was a high prevalence of mental health impairments and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly in patients with comorbid cardiac diseases. Methods During waves 2–5, all hospitalized patients with cardiac problems and suspected COVID-19 were eligible to participate in this study. Results The prevalence of PTSD was 31.4% (n=48) in 153 participants. No age- and gender-related differences for PTSD were found. Conclusions The prevalence is lower than during the first wave but higher than in patients reported in other studies who were isolated at home. Routine mental health assessments are strongly recommended for patients at risk.