Peer Reviewed
Perspectives

Detecting and managing depression in patients with cardiac disease

Samia R Toukhsati, David L Hare
Abstract
Depression is common in patients with cardiac disease, is associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity, and is the major driver of quality of life. Depression is also a major determinant of adherence to treatment strategies. It is therefore important that depressive symptoms are recognised and treated early in patients with cardiac disease.
Key Points
  • Depression is common in patients with cardiovascular disease and is associated with a greater risk of morbidity and mortality.
  • Early detection and management of depression is critical for optimising patient prognosis and quality of life.
  • GPs should screen their patients with cardiac disease for depression, either by clinical questioning or by a screening questionnaire.
  • The Cardiac Depression Scale-Short Form (DS-SF) is a fast, reliable and sensitive index of depression that can be completed in the waiting room before the GP consultation.
  • Depressed patients may require intervention (such as pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy or exercise), which can be managed by the GP or a specialist.
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