Incidence and impacts of post-cardiac event mental health problems
Barbara Murphy, Rosemary O. Higgins, Alun C. Jackson
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Acute cardiac events confer an increased risk of mental health problems, which compromise physical recovery and increase the risk of recurrence and premature mortality. OBJECTIVE: This paper provides an overview of the nature, prevalence, predictors and impacts of post-cardiac event mental health problems, and outlines the benefits of mental health screening, effective treatments for mental health problems and the role of general practitioners (GPs) in the identification and management of mental health problems in cardiac patients. DISCUSSION: Post-event mental health problems are common, yet gaps exist in their identification and management in acute inpatient, cardiac rehabilitation and primary care settings. Effective screening tools and treatment options are available and have been shown to improve not only mental health, but also cardiovascular outcomes. GPs are well placed to contribute to the identification and management of post-event mental health problems provided they are equipped with adequate information about treatment and referral options.