Improving nurses' awareness of mental health disorders in adults with congenital heart disease

Abstract

Mental health is an important factor in a person's overall health outcomes. Congenital heart diseases are life-long conditions, often leading to repeated admissions to hospital for a variety of reasons. Most health professionals are aware of the impact that poor psychological wellbeing and mental health can have on a person's cardiovascular health. Anxiety is prevalent among people with congenital heart disease, and patients may adopt unhealthy coping behaviours that could contribute to their cardiovascular risk. Psychological distress, such as feelings of anxiety and depression, can adversely affect adherence to treatment plans by impairing the patient's ability to follow their medication regimens, comprehend medical instructions and engage in recommended lifestyle changes, ultimately contributing to poorer health outcomes. Psychological support should be provided according to personalised needs to enhance quality of life. As a key point of contact and a trusted advocate for patients and other health professionals, adult congenital heart disease clinical nurse specialists are pivotal in the assessment of psychological wellbeing, provision of advice, signposting and, where appropriate, referral to expert psychological support for these patients. This article aims to improve the awareness of cardiac nurses regarding mental health disorders among adults with congenital heart disease, including recommendations to ensure that holistic, patient-centred care is delivered to this patient group.