Psychological characteristics of Far North patients with arterial hypertension

Abstract

Aim. To study psychological characteristics of arterial hypertension (AH) patients living in the Far North.

Material and methods. In total, 203 individuals were examined: 153 patients (59 males, mean age 42,12+7,01 years; 94 females, mean age 51,39+4,07 years) with verified AH, as well as 50 persons without cardiovascular pathology (19 males, mean age 43,44+10,17 years; 31 females, mean age 37,37+9,59 years). Personality type and affective parameters were assessed using interviews, personality scales, and questionnaires.

Results. The combination of hysteroid-hypochondriac and schizoid characteristics was a psychological AH marker in the Far North patients. Gender differences were related to affective sphere involvement in AH females. Behavioural traits in AH patients were characterized by problematic adaptation to changes in daily routine, low tolerance of unpredictable situations, pessimism, and exaggeration of expected threats.

Conclusion. AH clinical course is determined by borderline psychological disorders, which points to a need for complex treatment, including behavioral and relaxation methods.