Illness perception, coping and psychological distress among patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in China.

objectivesThe study examined the effects of illness perception on mental health among patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and the moderating role of coping style in this effect.

methodsThe current study has collected the data of MAFLD patients at baseline and 8 months after. In both baseline and follow-up surveys, structural questionnaires were adopted to assess participants' illness perception (BIPQ), coping strategies (Brief COPE) and psychological distress (GHQ-12). A cross-lagged panel model was constructed to examine the associations between illness perception and psychological distress over 8 months. The moderating role of coping in the relationship between illness perception and psychological distress was addressed.

resultsA total of 155 participants diagnosed with MAFLD were enrolled in the baseline survey, of which 71 patients engaged in the 8-month follow-up. The results showed that severe illness perceptions (perceiving MAFLD with more negative consequence, more negative emotions, lower coherence, and less treatment control) were associated with increased psychological distress 8 months later (β = 0.171, p < 0.05). Though approach coping showed an overall positive effect (β = 0.169, p < 0.05), people using it as a dominant strategy tend to be more subjected to the impacts of negative illness perceptions.

conclusionThreatening perceptions about MAFLD were associated with more psychological distress over time, and coping style has moderated the effects of illness perceptions. Healthcare providers should be aware of the impacts of negative illness perceptions, particularly when developing coping skill training programs to promote well-being and recovery.