Depression: Beyond Description As an Important Comorbidity in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension—The Next Steps

Abstract

The recent identification of depression as an important comorbidity in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) 1,2 is leading to a broad array of efforts to further refine our understanding of this disorder, enhance patient and provider education about it, and encourage prompt recognition, appropriate diagnosis, and treatment of affected individuals. We will provide an update on the nature and extent of the problem, and describe ongoing and future efforts to address this very important determinant of quality of life and possible long-term outcome in patients with PAH.

Pulmonary Hypertension Patient Navigation: Avoiding the Perfect Storm

“…In addition, anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in PAH patients associated with the debilitating symptoms and drastic lifestyle changes that arise as the disease progresses. 15 Consequently, PH centers should have the ability to provide mental health services or a mechanism to refer patients to outside resources. Every PH center should provide access to a PH support group or deliver information regarding area support groups associated with the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA), including the PHA telephone support group if the patient cannot attend in person.…”