Effects of future consequence consideration, cognitive reappraisal, and self-efficacy in health management on psychological distress in women

Abstract

Psychological distress in women represents a critical aspect; however, few studies have comprehensively addressed how health management strategies, consideration of future consequences (CFC), cognitive reappropriation, and self-efficacy may influence this phenomenon, especially in contexts that require a comprehensive approach to women’s mental health. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of future consequence consideration, cognitive reappraisal, and self-efficacy in health management on psychological distress in American women, as well as to demonstrate their equivalence according to age. Data from 2788 women responding to the 2019 Health Information National Trends Survey 5, cycle 3 were used. A predictive model was considered using structural equation modeling (SEM). Cognitive reappraisal and self-efficacy in health management (SEHM) have a significant mediating effect between CFC and psychological distress. In addition, the invariance of the SEM model was presented as a function of age. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating cognitive components into mental health interventions for women, focusing on modifying thoughts and perceptions about the efficacy of health care to mitigate negative emotions.