Cognitive Emotion Regulation and Mental Health Outcomes among Individuals with Chronic Diseases: Exploring Adaptive and Maladaptive Strategies

Chronic diseases place substantial cognitive and emotional demands. Utilizing adaptive strategies can mitigate these challenges and enhance mental health outcomes. However, research is limited among individuals living with chronic conditions, especially in non-western contexts. We examined the relationship between cognitive emotion regulation strategies and mental health outcomes among individuals living with chronic conditions in Ghana. Using cross-sectional data from 801 participants (mean age = 46.61 years, SD = 16.21), we used multiple regression models to estimate associations between specific strategies and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Positive refocusing, self-blame, refocus on planning, and putting into perspective were found to negatively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. In contrast, rumination, positive appraisal and blaming others, were positively associated with depression, anxiety and stress. These findings emphasize the need for targeted mental health interventions that promote adaptive emotion regulation strategies to enhance mental health for individuals with chronic conditions.