In 2021, researchers in otolaryngology at the University of Buffalo noticed that there was a certain group of patients who had exceptionally great difficulty in making the decision to undergo ENT surgery. They decided to find out what these difficulties were caused by.

The results of the study show that patients who struggle with depression, excessive anxiety and intolerance of uncertainty have the greatest difficulty in making this kind of decision. Why is this the case?

Depression and anxiety and decision-making

Depression is not only responsible for depressed mood. In the DS V diagnostic criteria, we find information about symptoms such as impaired concentration, difficulties in decision-making, reduced thinking ability, fatigue and feelings of hopelessness.

Anxiety causes excessive worrying about the future, creating catastrophic scenarios and constantly analysing all available possibilities, which is definitely not conducive to decision-making.

Does intolerance of uncertainty matter and what exactly is it?

Intolerance of uncertainty is a relatively new construct and refers to feeling strong discomfort when we do not know exactly what lies ahead. Every operation has the fact that it carries a certain amount of risk and therefore uncertainty about the outcome. For a patient who is characterised by a high intolerance of uncertainty, any decision involving risk will be very difficult to make.

Knowing the results of this study allows for a better understanding of patients, their needs and possible concerns. This could significantly facilitate doctor-patient communication in the future.