PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS IN PATIENTS WITH GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS

Abstract

Psychological distress, including symptoms of anxiety and depression, is commonly experienced by individuals with gastrointestinal disorders, especially those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia. This distress can worsen gastrointestinal symptoms, leading to a cycle of escalating issue. A significant proportion of patients with gastrointestinal disorders report experiencing psychological distress. For example, 70% or more of IBS patients may experience psychological distress. This study focused on the contribution of psychosocial factors (illness perceptions, resilience, anxiety, dietary behavior and doctor patient relationship) in psychological distress experienced by patients with gastrointestinal disorders. It was hypothesized that anxiety mediates the relationship between illness perception and psychological distress. Furthermore, the relative contribution of sociodemographic factors was also explored to find how do individuals with diverse sociodemographics tend to differ in psychological distress. A correlational research was carried out where a sample of (N=….) was recruited using purposive sampling from private and public sector hospitals in Lahore. Assessment measures included demographic and clinical information sheets, The Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Brief Resilience Scale, GAD-7, Patient-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire, Adolescent Food Habits Checklist, and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. The findings revealed that individuals with negative illness perception and higher levels of anxiety reported increased psychological distress. It was found that individuals with higher resilience, healthy doctor-patient relationship, and healthier dietary behaviors tend to report lower levels of psychological distress. It was found that anxiety acted as a mediator between illness perceptions and psychological distress. EXPLAIN HOW abd what does it mean?? The study highlights the relevance of addressing ill-adaptive illness beliefs and adaptive coping strategies to improve psychological wellbeing and improved Quality of life in individuals living with a chronic condition like Gastrointestinal disorders.