Mood and anxiety disorders in patients with cardiac arrhythmias from Lublin City and its province – pilot study

Abstract

Introduction. Co-existance of heart problems with mood and anxiety disorders creates the vicious circle of activation of autonomic nervous system, somatic symptoms and unpleased emotions, on which patients focus their attention. Due to this process emotional arousal may influence electro-stability of the heart. Aim. Aim of the study was the investigation and detailed specification of mood and anxiety disorders patients living with cardiac arrhythmia according to their place of dwelling. Material and methods. The study was carried out among 75 patients with cardiac arrhythmias, from Lublin City (group I) and Lublin’s province (group II). Anxiety was measured with the IPAT Anxiety Scale Cattell, emotional control with Courtauld Emotional Control Scale – CECS by Watson, Greer and BDI – Beck Depression Inventory. Sociodemographic questionnaire gathered data concerning sex, age, place of living, level of education, maintenance and occupational situation. Results. The conducted research revealed that there is a statistical difference in depression level, no statistical difference however, between levels of anxiety and emotional control in patients with cardiac arrhythmias from Lublin City and its province. Moreover, the coexistence between specific types of arrhythmia and elements of anxiety structure was stated. Conclusions. In conclusion, should be stated that there is no difference in emotional pattern between rural and urban patients with cardiac arrhythmias. However, rural patients presents slightly increased levels of anxiety and all its components, as well as emotional control. Level of depression however, clearly differentiates both groups. Depression and free floating anxiety disorder is higher in rural citizens.