Speakers
Dr. Willy, Chung-Hin Wong
Dr. WONG Chung Hin Willy is a specialist in psychiatry in Hong Kong. He is a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, a fellow of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists and Hong Kong Academy of Medicine. He is the director and private psychiatrist of Hong Kong Psychiatry and Integrated Medical Centre. He also works as
a psychiatrist in University Health Service, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is a recipient of the Fellowship Award of the Japanese Society of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2015. He has attained a master degree in medical law in Northumbria University. He is a certified sex therapist recognized by Hong Kong Association of Sexuality Educators, Researchers & Therapists.
He is involved in work in many non-government organizations. He is a radio program presenter in Radio Television Hong Kong. He is also an author and editor of many books and a columnist in newspapers and magazines for public mental health education. His academic interests include mood disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, pain management, sex therapy, substance abuse and medico-legal issues.
Abstract
Psychological Approach in Managing Stress and Anxiety
Fear and anxiety are the most common psychological reactions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. A study showed that fear of COVID-19 was found in about one half of the patients with heart failure and coronavirus anxiety was found in about one third of the patients with heart failure. Having angina and chronic lung disease were associated with increased odds of fear of COVID-19 and coronavirus anxiety. Another study showed that patients with cardiovascular disease might experience anxiety and depression not only because of the disease complications, but also due to the effects of the pandemic.
Apart from pharmacological treatment, psychological treatment is also useful for management of anxiety. Psychotherapy is a form of intervention which has a positive effect on the quality of life of patients with anxiety. Examples of psychological treatment include cognitive behavioural therapy, metacognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. There was evidence that mindfulness-based stress reduction program was useful.
There has also been evidence showing that aerobic exercise treatment may have beneficial effect on anxiety. The management of stress and anxiety highlights the importance of collaboration between cardiologists and psychiatrists. Regular assessment of the psychological status related to COVID-19 and timely psychological and psychiatric management in patients with cardiovascular diseases is important.