EFPA contributes to European Society of Cardiology Clinical Consensus Statement on mental health and cardiovascular disease

29th September 2025—On the occasion of World Heart Day, the European Federation of Psychologists' Associations (EFPA) notes its support for the Clinical Consensus Statement on mental health and cardiovascular disease. Developed under the auspices of the European Society of Cardiology Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee and the task force on mental health and cardiovascular disease, EFPA experts appointed from the Federation's Full Members were invited to review and share input.

This statement highlights the close and bidirectional relationship between cardiovascular (CV) and mental health, stressing the importance of incorporating psychological assessment and care into routine cardiology practice. It underscores that stigma around mental health—both in society and within healthcare systems—remains a major barrier. To address these gaps, it calls for awareness campaigns, education for clinicians, and active involvement of patients and caregivers in shaping care models.

An emphasis is placed on integrated and holistic care models that connect CV services with mental health professionals, primary care, and social services. The statement advocates for psychologists and other allied health professionals to play a central role in co-developing patient-centred care pathways and in designing educational and training programmes for both healthcare providers and patients. The statement also highlights the value of comprehensive rehabilitation programmes that combine psychological, medical, and social support.

The statement also identifies an urgent need for stronger research evidence on the mechanisms linking mental health and cardiovascular disease. It calls for large-scale longitudinal studies and randomised controlled trials that test psychological, pharmacological, and social interventions, especially for people with diverse forms of CVD and those living with mental health conditions, including SMI. This points to an expanding role for psychologists in both clinical care and research, contributing to the development and evaluation of interventions that can improve outcomes across both mental and cardiovascular health.

The statement can be viewed here