Impact of Sudden Cardiac Arrest and Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator Shocks on Mental Health Review and Management Guidance

Survivors of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and those who experience shocks from an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD-S) are at risk of developing unrecognized and untreated mental health (MH) symptoms. MH sequelae can include anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress symptoms which hinder one's ability to return to usual life and activity, impeding follow-up, health care seeking, and adherence to care plans. Addressing MH as part of a whole person care in such scenarios could lead to improved wellness and recovery. This review examines the MH sequelae of SCA and ICD-S, explores potential therapies for managing these issues, proposes strategies to improve MH post-SCA or defibrillator shock, and identifies areas for future research.