[Changes in mental condition of women with heart failure].

Heart Failure (HF) is one of the most serious diseases of cardiovascular system. Epidemiological studies conducted in the first decade of 2000s in industrialised countries show that heart failure occurs in approx. 1-2 % of the population and significantly increases up to 10 % in people over the age of 70. Because of the increase in incidence and high mortality heart failure is one of the most important challenges for modern medicine.

Objective: The aim of this study was to isolate and characterise emotional and adaptive changes observed in women treated for heart failure. Heart failure may be caused by myocardial infarction, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, untreated hypertension, valvular heart disease, abuse of alcohol and other toxic substances. Its most serious symptoms and therefore most exhausting for patients are: shortness of breath, forced vertical position while breathing, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, weakness, fatigue and generalized edema.

Material and methods: Observations and psychological examination were conducted in 64 women treated for heart failure. Women with HF were provided with help and individual supportive therapy. In conducting individual therapy the role and importance of family support was taken into account.

Results: The results of conducted observations and psychological therapy showed that women with HF revealed many negative emotional states: fear, anxiety, insecurity, depressed mood, depression, impatience, anger and a sense of loss. Progressive heart failure contributed to the increase of negative emotions and lead to the development of mental crisis. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAAI) by C.D. Spielberger and The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) A.S. Zigmond and R.P. Snaith were used in psychological examination.

Conclusions: Conducted research and psychological observations allow to conclude that patients with heart failure require professional help and psychological intervention. Psychological therapy should be provided to patients at different stages of disease development. Techniques of psychological therapy must be focused on strengthening psychological resilience and providing help to survive mental health crisis.