Table 3.
Factors predicting resolution of psychological distress or constantly low levels of distress.
| Explanatory variable | Group comparison | Odds ratio | 95% CI | P-value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initially distressed patients (n = 80) | 0.001 | |||
| High social support | Still distressed at follow up | 1.0 | ||
| Improved at follow up | 2.2 | (1.1 to 4.3) | 0.00 | |
| Initially not distressed patients (n = 211) | <0.001 | |||
| Living with a partner | High distress at follow up | 1.0 | ||
| Low distress at follow up | 2.8 | (1.1 to 7.6) | 0.004 | |
| Fewer emotional problems (no strain, no insomnia, recreational activities) | High distress at follow up | 1.0 | ||
| Low distress at follow up | 1.3 | (1.1 to 1.4) | <0.001 | |
Backward selection of logistic regression was based on the following baseline variables: sex, age, coping style (Freiburg questionnaire for coping with illness), emotional and physical problems (Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire), social support (F-SozU), New York Heart Association classification, Goldman's Specific Activity Scale (SAS), living with a partner, number of persons per household, actual employment.