Promoting positive psychological growth and coping in young people with CHD. Dr Chris Tennyson Clinical Psychologist Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children

Introduction: Clinical Psychologist working in the Royal Hospital across a number of child and family services including general paediatrics, community paediatrics, maternity, and paediatric cardiology. Background working in child and adolescent mental health services, as well as a number of adult services, including adult physical health. Doctoral research into coping and adjustment to diagnosis of chronic, incurable health conditions in adults. As such, my current role draws on a range of these experiences, with particular consideration to development over the whole lifespan.

Overview: The role of a Clinical Psychologist The role of psychology in physical health and paediatrics Looking back on the experience of being ill – what comes from this? Benefit finding and post-traumatic growth Factors associated with benefit finding and post-traumatic growth Practically integrating these into care of our young people Conclusions Questions and comments

The role of a Clinical Psychologist

The role of a psychologist in physical health Psychological impact of being unwell – short term and long term Specific issues – procedural anxiety, adherence etc. Impact of physical health on developing identity Relationship between mind and body Health related quality of life

Looking back on being unwell – what comes from this? Learning from how others have coped: Post-traumatic growth Benefit finding

Factors linked to BF and PTG in chronic health conditions Acceptance Self-distraction Active coping Social support Venting Positive reframing Humour Religion/Spirituality

Integrating this knowledge into practical care YOUR FEEDBACK/IDEAS?? Suggestions stemming from research

Conclusions Food for thought – reflecting on what we’re already doing that is positive, and what else we might usefully incorporate into caring for our young people Thinking about challenges as opportunities for growth Useful for me as a professional, to get parents feedback and ideas, so I can help others who are still in the early stages of coping/adjusting Recognising barriers Sharing ideas and resources with one another

Questions & Comments