Researchers at the Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg hospitals in Denmark found that cognitive behavioral therapy reduced anxiety and depression in patients with cardiovascular disease. Research published European Journal of Cardiology.
The analysis included 147 people (67% male, mean age 54 years) who were hospitalized for heart problems and were later diagnosed with an anxiety disorder or depression. They were randomly assigned to a control group and a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group.
After three months, the results of tests on psychological well-being in patients in the CBT group were twice as good as in the control group. The differences continued to be significant at six months. People in the CBT group also adhered better to prescribed medications, were significantly less likely to be hospitalized for heart problems, and had an overall better quality of life.
The results mean that all patients entering cardiac rehabilitation should be screened for depression or anxiety. If they are found, cognitive behavioral therapy may be an effective treatment option.