Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among heart patients
Many heart patients experience mental health issues following heart diseases or procedures. A common condition is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which can develop after a traumatic experience such as a heart attack or a major heart surgery. Symptoms of PTSD may include intense anxiety, flashbacks, sleep problems, and avoidance of situations that remind them of the event.
This study will investigate the prevalence of PTSD among heart patients and how this condition affects their physical health and quality of life. By including PTSD in the Tromsø Study, we hope to gain better insight into how PTSD can worsen disease progression, reduce quality of life, and make it more difficult for patients to manage their illness. Through this work, we aim to develop better ways to identify and treat PTSD among heart patients, so they can receive better support for both their physical and mental health.
Other project collaborators: Marit Helene Hem and Henrik Schirmer.
See also here.