Logo image
Coping strategies in patients with interstitial cystitis: relationships with quality of life and depression
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Coping strategies in patients with interstitial cystitis: relationships with quality of life and depression

Nan E Rothrock, Susan K Lutgendorf and Karl J Kreder
The Journal of urology, Vol.169(1), pp.233-236
01/2003
DOI: 10.1016/S0022-5347(05)64075-X
PMID: 12478143

View Online

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that interstitial cystitis patients experience depressive symptoms and decrements to quality of life. However, to our knowledge the extent to which patients may be able to influence quality of life and depressive symptoms through coping strategies has not been investigated in this population. In a number of other chronic conditions specific coping strategies have been associated with the degree of impairment beyond disease severity. Therefore, the association of coping strategies with depressive symptoms, quality of life and self-reports of pain was assessed in patients with interstitial cystitis. A total of 64 females with interstitial cystitis were recruited from a urology clinic at a tertiary medical center. Questionnaires assessing depression, quality of life, coping and symptom severity were completed and returned at a clinic appointment. Depression was also measured through a standardized semi-structured interview (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression). All analyses controlled for age. Patients coping by greater catastrophizing reported greater impairments in various domains, including depressive symptoms, general mental health, social functioning, vitality and pain. Greater venting was associated with greater depressive symptoms and poorer mental health. Seeking instrumental social support was associated with fewer depressive symptoms. These findings suggest that maladaptive coping strategies are associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms and quality of life decrements in patients with this condition. Psychosocial interventions aimed at increasing adaptive coping may positively impact the female experience with interstitial cystitis.
Depression - etiology Humans Middle Aged Social Support Aged, 80 and over Cystitis, Interstitial - psychology Quality of Life Adult Female Surveys and Questionnaires Aged Adaptation, Psychological

Details

Logo image