Study links coping strategies to death anxiety, insomnia in NCD patients

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders are major contributors to global health challenges, resulting in both physical ailments and significant psychological distress. A recent study investigated how coping strategies mediate the relationship between death anxiety and insomnia among patients with NCDs, emphasizing gender differences in these dynamics.

The study involved a sample of 264 patients diagnosed with various NCDs from hospitals in Punjab, Pakistan. Researchers utilized three measurement tools: the Death Anxiety Scale, the Athens Insomnia Scale, and the Brief Coping Inventory. The findings revealed that higher levels of death anxiety were positively correlated with insomnia symptoms, while effective coping strategies negatively correlated with both death anxiety and insomnia.

Specifically, the results showed a strong positive correlation between death anxiety and insomnia (r = .648) and a negative correlation with coping strategies (r = -.817). This indicates that as death anxiety increases, insomnia symptoms also rise, but the use of coping strategies can mitigate these effects. Notably, coping strategies fully mediated the connection between death anxiety and insomnia, with male participants showing a mediation effect value of 0.57 and female participants at 0.663, both statistically significant (p < .05).

Gender differences were pronounced; women reported higher levels of both death anxiety and insomnia compared to men. Women tended to use more emotion-focused coping strategies, like seeking social support, while men preferred problem-focused approaches. These findings suggest that gender-specific coping mechanisms can influence how patients manage the psychological impacts of chronic illness.

The study underscores the importance of integrating coping strategies into treatment plans for patients with NCDs. Effective coping can alleviate psychological distress and improve sleep quality, which is often compromised in individuals facing chronic health conditions. Insomnia is prevalent among patients with NCDs and can lead to further health complications, including fatigue and impaired cognitive function.

In conclusion, the research highlights the need for mental health professionals to consider gender differences in coping strategies when addressing death anxiety and insomnia in patients with NCDs. Tailoring interventions to improve coping techniques may enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for these patients.