Psychological functioning and life experiences in adults with congenital heart disease

Abstract

The number of adults with congenital heart disease is growing rapidly and this population requires highly specialized medical and also psychosocial care. The aim of this chapter is to provide an overview of the psychosocial aspects of adults with congenital heart disease, by focusing on psychological functioning, factors associated with psychological distress, coping strategies and life experiences in this population. In the literature, it is outlined how psychological and social aspects, more than the more objective medical ones, play an important role in the psychological wellbeing of these patients who struggle to lead a life which is as “normal” as possible. Finally, a clinical case study regarding the provision of support to an adult with congenital heart disease, immediately after cardiac surgery, is reported at the end of the chapter. In this case study, elements regarding the referral to the psychologist are described, and it is shown how the issues reported in the literature emerge in a subjective life experience.