Depression, anxiety and coping strategies in adult patients with cystic fibrosis

The considerable progress that has been made in the treatment of cystic fibrosis has significantly increased life expectancy. The milti-disciplinary approach is now considered to be a priority by centers providing care for adults with cystic fibrosis. The aim of this study was to investigate three psychological morbidities their are commonly, present with this disease: depression, anxiety, and poor coping mechanisms for stress. Sixteen subjects (aged 19 to 37 years) participated in this study and were divided in three groups according to the severity of their pulmonary disease. Assessments of depression and anxiety were made from two perspectives: 1) the subject's own perception of his/her depressive and anxious state; 2) a psychologist's assessment of the patients depressive and anxious state. Then, reactions to stress were explored by analyzing "coping" strategies employed. Results indicate that patients underestimated the level of their depressive and anxious state when compared to the psychologists assessment. The majority of them exhibited "coping" strategies based on emotional responses. Levels of anxiety and depression did not show any relationship with the severity of pulmonary disease suggesting that the major determinant of emotional well-being lies with the individual's own perception of their state and of the support available to them.