WEEKEND READ: Psychological Aspects of Living with Congenital Heart Disease

Although resilience and high quality of life are demonstrated by many individuals with congenital heart disease, a range of significant psychological challenges exists across the life span for this growing patient population. Psychiatric disorders represent the most common comorbidity among people with congenital heart disease.

The American Heart Association scientific statement can be of interest to both patients and their families. Two of the authors have a congenital heart problem themselves.

Psychological Outcomes and Interventions for Individuals With Congenital Heart Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

The document provides general information and does not provide health advice or treatment recommendations for specific individuals.

The goal of it is to serve as a catalyst to spur efforts for large-scale research studies examining psychological experiences, outcomes, and interventions tailored to this population and for integrating mental health professionals within congenital heart disease interdisciplinary teams to implement a care model that offers patients the best possible quality of life.