Psychocardiology - from a practical and clinical point of view

In order to treat and research the development, progression, therapy and prevention of cardiological and psychosomatic disorders and their interactions, the field of psychocardiology has been established in recent years and now offers several treatment options. The well-known somatic risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as smoking, diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension and acquired or congenital lipid metabolism disorders, lack of exercise, malnutrition and sleep-related disorders are often related to psychosocial risk factors. Conversely, mental illnesses such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder can also be viewed as independent risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Somatic illnesses can, in turn, result in significant psychological reactions that have a severely negative impact on the course of the disease, participation and quality of life. In addition to the scientific research into these connections, psychocardiology offers a clinical specialty that questions, diagnoses and provides treatment for psychosocial connections in cardiovascular patients. The aim of this article is primarily to convey clinical and practical aspects of psychocardiology and the most important psychological comorbidities in connection with heart disease. In addition, it should be shown which therapeutic offers are available in the medical care structures and how therapy can be carried out. Psychotherapy and exercise therapy are preferred for the treatment of these comorbid disorders. The possibility of psychopharmacological therapy for cardiovascular patients is also presented, especially because of possible problematic medication interactions.