Personality in Patients With Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Natalia Treder-Rochna; Agnieszka Sabisz; Mariusz Siemiński; Marcin Fijałkowski

doi:10.18290/rpsych20234-2

Natalia Treder-Rochna University of Gdansk, Institute of Psychology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8405-9418
Agnieszka Sabisz Medical University of Gdansk, Second Department of Radiology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6653-5425
Mariusz Siemiński Medical University of Gdansk, Department of Emergency Medicine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8219-2912
Marcin Fijałkowski Medical University of Gdansk, First Department of Cardiology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2913-5457

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18290/rpsych20234-2

Keywords: takotsubo cardiomyopathy, personality traits, type D personality, stress, heart disease

Abstract

The last few years have seen an increase in the awareness of a specific heart disease referred to as takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The evidence from the literature demonstrates that psychological variables (especially personality traits) can have a significant impact on the manifestations of different heart diseases. Little is known, however, about the psychological characteristics of takotsubo patients. The primary purpose of this research was to extract the specific personality traits of patients with takotsubo syndrome. Our research covered 76 participants divided into three groups: the clinical group—patients with takotsubo cardiomyopathy (n = 30); Comparison Group 1—individuals with acute myocardial infarction group (n = 21); and Comparison Group 2—heart-healthy persons (n = 25). The study included psychological tests and an MRI examination. The psychological methods used in the research were the NEO Personality Inventory, the Type D Scale, and the assessment of the occurrence of stressful life events. Most takotsubo patients reported stressful life events before the occurrence of takotsubo symptoms. In our studies, it was not typical for takotsubo to be associated type D personality. Takotsubo patients have experienced negative emotions but do not suppress their emotions and participate socially without emotional inhibitions. Moreover, patients are open to experience, have average self-control, and tend to be dutiful and dependable. It is possible that these personality traits could facilitate the healing process.

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