This narrative review delves into the intricate relationship between cardiovascular health and mental well-being, illuminating the bidirectional influence these domains wield over each other. It elucidates how cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) can precipitate mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and depression, while simultaneously highlighting how these mental conditions can exacerbate or heighten the risk of CVDs. Emphasizing the imperative of a holistic healthcare approach, the review advocates for comprehensive strategies that integrate the treatment of physical CVD symptoms with interventions addressing mental health issues. Recommendations span psychotherapy, pharmacological treatments, lifestyle modifications, and the integration of digital health technologies. The significance of family and social support in the recovery process is underscored, alongside a discussion of barriers impeding the amalgamation of mental health care into cardiovascular treatment. The article contends for a paradigm shift towards more inclusive and integrated care models, proposing policy changes and healthcare system reforms to facilitate the seamless integration of mental health services into cardiovascular care, ultimately enhancing outcomes for patients grappling with both CVDs and associated mental health issues.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), encompassing a spectrum of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels globally, constitute a significant global health challenge [1]. With risk factors and complications shared among various CVDs, they collectively contribute to a substantial number of global deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that CVDs are the leading cause of death worldwide, with 17.9 million reported deaths in 2019, representing 32% of all fatalities [1]. Myocardial infarction and stroke constitute the majority of these cases. The financial burden of CVDs is substantial, with expenditures in the United States alone reaching $407.3 billion in 2018-2019.
Beyond the physical implications, living with CVDs introduces psychological challenges, impacting patients’ quality of life [2]. This review recognizes the multifaceted psychological impact, ranging from vigilance and uncertainty to stress, anxiety, and depression. The sense of vulnerability and constant worry about complications can disrupt various aspects of patients’ lives, from sleep patterns to leisure activities. The limitations imposed by the condition, coupled with the need for ongoing treatment, may contribute to feelings of frustration and helplessness, potentially leading to depression.
The narrative review aims to comprehensively explore the intricate connection between mental health and CVDs, emphasizing the reciprocal influence and profound implications on individuals. It outlines effective management strategies, encompassing pharmacological treatments, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and digital health technologies. Furthermore, the review advocates for policy changes and healthcare system reforms to support the seamless integration of mental health services into cardiovascular care, fostering improved outcomes for individuals navigating the complex interplay of CVDs and associated mental health issues.
