Myocardial infarction and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Studies concerning the development of a post-traumatic stress disorder related to severe illness are scarce. The confrontation with myocardial infarction may be a very stressful event. Twenty-three patients consecutively admitted for first myocardial infarction were studied. After two years 1 of 18 survivors had been suffering from a partial post-traumatic stress disorder. Similarities and differences in the psychological reactions following potential traumatic events are discussed.
van Driel
R C
RC
Department of Psychiatry, St. Lucas Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Op den Velde
W
W
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000523:psychology*; D010552:Personality Assessment; D012008:Recurrence; D012803:Sick Role; D013001:Somatoform Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*