Psychological flexibility processes differentially predict anxiety, depression, and well-being throughout cardiac rehabilitation.

Several psychological processes can influence the adjustment of cardiac patients. Psychological flexibility (PF) has been linked to significant improvements in psychological well-being during cardiac rehabilitation (CR). PF can be understood as the dynamic interaction of three key processes: Openness to Experience (OE), Behavioral Awareness (BA), and Value-driven Action (VA). This study aimed to 1) evaluate the distinct role of these processes in predicting anxiety, depression, and psychological well-being in cardiac patients, and 2) assess these associations over the course of CR.

A total of 194 CR patients participated in this longitudinal study, with 156 completing follow-up assessments at T2. Anxiety and depression were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-4, psychological well-being with the Psychological Well-being Index-Short, and PF using the Comprehensive Assessment of ACT Processes.

Cross-sectional regression analysis revealed that all three PF dimensions were negatively associated with anxiety and depression and positively associated with psychological well-being at T1. However, longitudinal analyses showed that only VA was positively associated with a decrease in depressive symptoms following CR. A sensitivity analysis conducted on the subgroup of patients with mild to severe symptoms of anxiety and depression further confirmed the robustness of these findings. These results highlight the potential benefits of measuring specific PF processes when examining the psychological status of cardiac patients and when planning psychological interventions during CR. 

Corresponding author: Chiara A.M. Spatola - e-mail: [e-mail]