The dynamic journey of posttraumatic growth after acute myocardial infarction: A longitudinal qualitative study

Beyond its physical threat, acute myocardial infarction acts as a potent catalyst for posttraumatic growth. Although posttraumatic growth is a well-documented phenomenon, a nuanced understanding of its dynamic evolution within specific cultural contexts remains lacking.

This study aimed to explore the process of posttraumatic growth in patients following an acute myocardial infarction and to examine how this process unfolds dynamically over time within the Chinese cultural context.

A longitudinal qualitative study design was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten patients at three distinct time points: the day before discharge, three months post-discharge, and six months post-discharge. Data from 29 interviews were analyzed using conventional content analysis, followed by a longitudinal comparative analysis.

The findings revealed a four-stage process of posttraumatic growth: experiencing illness-related trauma, reflecting and awakening, adapting to life with illness, and gaining personal growth. Early growth was driven by profound self-reflection on past behaviors, a heightened awareness of the preciousness of life, and family-oriented motivations rooted in Chinese collectivist values. These factors collectively facilitated initial psychological adjustment and behavior change. Over time, illness-related trauma gradually diminished, with concerns shifting from the acute threat of death to sustained worries about the future. Self-reflection decreased as daily routines resumed, whereas acceptance of the illness progressively strengthened. Health vigilance tended to wane as the condition stabilized. Notably, family closeness, which was prominent in the acute phase, declined as patients developed greater personal strength.

Healthcare professionals should provide targeted, culturally sensitive guidance based on the characteristics of each stage. This approach will assist patients in mobilizing their inner resources and fostering psychological growth throughout their recovery.