PTSD and mood disorders in implantable cardioverter defibrillator patients: is more psychological assessment needed?

Introduction: The aim of this review is to identify common mood concerns in ICD patients and suggest brief psychological screeners essential for early detection and monitoring in patient care.

Areas covered: Reliable and valid psychological assessment tools are reviewed, including those specifically designed for ICD patient populations.

Expert opinion: Psychological assessment, in combination with cardiologic standard of care, can help overcome many barriers associated with poor implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) management and related cardiovascular outcomes. Earlier identification and treatment of mood concerns in ICD patients has been shown to improve quality of life (QOL) and patient outcomes. At this time, however, logistical challenges and time restraints, in addition to knowledge of appropriate treatment plans or referral options, remain central barriers to providing integrated, patient-centered care. Ultimately, all cardiology clinics would benefit from a collaborative care team that includes a mental health consultant or in-house psychologists who can provide consultations or referral services. Additionally, all patients that come to the clinics should complete proactive screening measures as routine component of care to assess the presence of mood concerns to improve patient outcomes and aid in treatment planning.