Psychological aspects in congenital heart disease: A lifelong perspective

The objective of this chapter is to tackle psychological issues pertaining to all the life phases of patients with congenital heart disease and their families – from the prenatal to the adult period. First and foremost, there will be a focus on communication to the families when it comes to the prenatal and neonatal period. It is particularly important for cardiologists to adjust their communication to the needs of the parents as they begin to cope with the cardiac condition. After that there will be an outline of the psychological functioning of patients with congenital heart disease from childhood to adulthood. In conclusion, some tips and considerations will be given to the medical professionals, in order for them to optimize the care they provide.