Experiences of Psychological Burden Among Individuals Living With Chronic Cardiovascular Disorders-A Qualitative
Israr Ahmad1,2, Ahtisham Younas3,4,5, Shahzad Inayat6
1Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
Background:
Psychological burden is a central aspect of living with chronic cardiovascular disorders and profoundly affects how individuals experience and cope with fear, dependency and loss of control. Understanding these experiences is essential for delivering high-quality, holistic and person-centred care.
Aim:
This study explored the experiences of psychological burden among individuals living with chronic cardiovascular disorders in a low- and middle-income context.
Methods:
We conducted a qualitative descriptive study. Nineteen individuals were purposively recruited using maximum variation sampling and interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide between May and September 2024. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis software (MAXQDA).
Findings:
The analysis of 19 interviews generated three overarching themes: (a) multifaceted disruption of life from acute onset to enduring dependency; (b) burden of existential fear and struggle for control; and (c) faith-based burden management: prayer, practice and spiritual resilience.
Conclusion:
Individuals with chronic cardiovascular disorders experience a significant psychological burden, including sudden illness onset, dependency and existential fear, despite available treatment. Faith, family and community support serve as key sources of coping. The integration of psychological care, spiritual support and culturally sensitive interventions alongside biomedical management is essential for improving outcomes in low and middle-income countries.
Implications For Patient Care:
Health care professionals should integrate psychological screening and counselling to address existential fears, social withdrawal and suppressed emotional expression among individuals with chronic cardiovascular disorders.
Patient Or Public Contribution:
Patients with chronic cardiovascular disorders informed the design of the interview guide, participated in interviews and helped validate the interpretation of findings, ensuring that the study reflected their lived experiences.
Reporting Method:
This study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ).
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