Abstract

Objective: Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) are the leading causes of mortality in Portugal and globally. Its prevalence spans several generations and does not choose a gender. Psychological interventions are carried out to help patients through the adaptation process and are mainly related to emotional and behavioral management and psychoeducation regarding patients’ lifestyles. We allude to the issue in the context of cognitive-behavioral intervention, in which the beliefs and meanings of the disease are worked on to achieve emotional regulation and promote self-care.

Methods: We reviewed the literature that presents the main results of studies published over the last 20 years concerning psychological intervention in adapting to CVD. The databases Science Direct, Taylor & Francis, Google Scholar, Springer Link, B-on, Pub Med, Scielo and RECAAP were used, using the keywords “psychological adaptation,” “cardiovascular disease,” “cognitive-behavioral therapy,” “intervention plan,” and “psychological intervention.” Only Portuguese and English papers were considered. The search was performed between September 21 and October 21, 2022.

Result: The adaptation process involves helping cardiovascular patients to reduce fear, anxiety, and depression in response to the necessary changes in their lives. Part of the adaptation to the disease is also preventive.

Conclusion: The main findings and their practical implications highlight a brief update of research and their psychosocial determinants in the last 20 years about cardiovascular diseases and the most effective psychological intervention.

Keywords:Cardiovascular disease; Cognitive behavioral therapy; Review study