Negative thoughts in adults with congenital heart disease.

Background: Many patients with congenital heart disease have persistent cardiac defects, psychosocial adjustment problems, and a poor quality of life. This study tested the relationship between negative thoughts and adaptation to congenital heart disease.

Methods: Eighty-two adult out-Patients with congenital heart disease were divided on the basis of few, moderate or many negative thoughts. Group differences were tested in medical and psychosocial adjustment variables (including negative emotions), and quality of life.

Results: Patients with many negative thoughts scored worse on psychosocial adjustment and quality of life, irrespective of severity of cardiac deviation, according to the cardiologist, New York Heart Association classification, number of passed and expected surgery, or use of medication.

Conclusion: Negative affect in general, rather than negative thoughts is decisive in psychosocial adjustment and quality of life. Psychological intervention would be helpful for many patients.