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Review
. 2023 Jun;25(6):443-453.
doi: 10.1007/s11886-023-01867-w. Epub 2023 Apr 29.

Internet-Delivered, Therapist-Assisted Treatment for Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: Evidence-Base and Challenges

S S Pedersen  1   2 , S J Skovbakke  3 , O Skov  3 , P Carlbring  4 , M M Burg  5 , M Habibović  6 , R Ahm  3
Affiliations
Review

Internet-Delivered, Therapist-Assisted Treatment for Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: Evidence-Base and Challenges

S S Pedersen et al. Curr Cardiol Rep. 2023 Jun.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review focuses on the efficacy of internet-based psychological interventions for patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and comorbid anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression comprise barriers for treatment adherence and are associated with poorer patient-reported and clinical outcomes, and greater health care costs.

Recent findings: Internet-based, therapist-assisted interventions targeting anxiety and depression can be as efficacious as face-to-face therapy and may have some advantages, as patients can do it from their own laptop/smartphone at home at a time of their convenience, which may facilitate a better integration in their lives. To enhance the field of internet-based therapy for patients with CVD, we need to involve patients in the development of interventions, focus on developing standards for adherence and assessment of fidelity, and assess and augment health literacy in patients to safeguard equality in health care.

Keywords: Anxiety; Cardiac rehabilitation; Cardiovascular disease; Depression; Internet-based therapy; Treatment.

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References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance
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