Stress, Anxiety and Depression

Objectives:

At the end of the session, the participant will have:

  • An understanding of the psychological challenges common to those with chronic lung disease.
  • Recognition of what stress is and how it affects the body, particularly in the context of breathlessness.
  • Increased knowledge and skills in recognising and managing stress, anxiety and depression.
  • Increased understanding of, and ability to use cognitive and behavioural techniques, mindfulness strategies and relaxation skills to manage anxiety related physical symptoms (other than chest pain).
  • Increased knowledge and skills in recognising and managing adjustment and grief issues.

Facilitator:

This session may be facilitated by a respiratory nurse, psychologist, social worker or mental health worker.

Topic Content Resources
Introduction to mental health issues common to those with lung disease Prevalence and normalisation of mental health difficulties.

Definition of stress.
Better Living with COPD (Ch 18)
Symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. List symptoms that commonly occur during times of stress.

The stress response and lung disease

Recognition and management of symptoms associated with depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

Recognition of adjustment and grief issues.
Beyond Blue

Black Dog Institute

Head to Health

Better Living with COPD (Ch 18)
Managing stress, anxiety and depression. The importance of managing mental health in the context of a lung disease
Non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments:
Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy: Tips for changing thinking and behavioural habits
Mindfulness
Relaxation skills

Role of exercise in managing mental health.
Medications
Maintaining or finding new interests or hobbies
Dealing with grief and loss.
Social support (including local and online support group)
When and how to seek professional help (including online and digital support)
Lung Foundation - Mental Health

Beyond Blue

Black Dog Institute

Head to Health

Contact Lung Foundation Australia to find your nearest patient support group (phone 1800 654 301)

Group discussion with patients.
Summary and questions. Discussion of different types of support based on individual needs Group discussion with patients.

Other Resources:

Signs and symptoms of chest infection

The Toolkit

Getting Started
Getting Started
Patient Assessment
Patient Assessment
Exercise Training
Exercise Training
Patient Education
Patient Education
Patient Re-assessment
Patient Re-Assessment
Additional Resources
Additional Resources

Endorsed by the following organisations according to their respective approved criteria: