Psychosocial aspects of patient care

Thyroid diseases are relatively common chronic diseases and one of the most common diseases of the endocrine system in general. This expert and unique book focuses on the influence of psychological and psychosocial contexts in thyroid disease, which is often neglected. It also includes a definition of the broader issues of health and illness from the perspective of psychosomatic medicine, behavioural medicine and health psychology, and an overview of thyroid diseases themselves, including their diagnosis and treatment options. It also touches upon the issues of burden and stress in the pathogenesis of hyperthyroidism, quality of life and personalities of patients with thyroid disease, gives an overview of research conducted in Czech patients, and considers the possibilities of psychological and psychosocial approaches and means in the treatment of this disease.