The Relationship of Uncertainty in Illness and PTSD Symptoms in Adult Patients With Chronic Lyme Disease

Caitlin Doody, Pace University

Abstract

Objective:To assess the prevalence of and relationship between uncertainty in illness and PTSD in the population of adults with chronic Lyme disease (CLD).Design: Quantitative, cross sectional.Setting: Online, social media, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.Participants: A total of 231 participants who identified as having CLD. Most of the participants were college-educated, Caucasian females from the United States with ages ranging 18-75.Methods: Anonymous surveys were distributed through Lyme disease groups on social media.Results: Key findings were the significant prevalence of uncertainty in illness and PTSD in CLD patients sampled and a positive linear relationship between these two factors in this population.Conclusion: Individuals living with contested illnesses such as CLD are at a higher risk of experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which are risk factors for PTSD. The study population reported high rates of trauma and betrayal related to interactions with medical providers, symptoms of illness, and social interactions. The results of this study demonstrated high prevalence of PTSD and uncertainty in illness within the study population of adults with CLD, as well as a moderate positive relationship between PTSD and Uncertainty in Illness. Patients with CLD require competent and compassionate medical care including regular screenings for PTSD.

Subject Area

Psychology|Internet and social media studies|Mental health|Clinical psychology

Recommended Citation

Doody, Caitlin, "The Relationship of Uncertainty in Illness and PTSD Symptoms in Adult Patients With Chronic Lyme Disease" (2024). ETD Collection for Pace University. AAI31294083.
https://digitalcommons.pace.edu/dissertations/AAI31294083

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