The internet and mobile technology: A platform for behavior change and intervention in depression and CVDs

Abstract

Depression often co-occurs with cardiovascular disease (CVD), affecting not only the individuals' well-being but also causing a high socioeconomic burden. Access to effective, acceptable, and cost-effective treatment of depression however is limited. Internet- and mobile-based interventions (IMIs) can provide access to effective treatments at any time at any place for many individuals simultaneously and thus have the potential to substantially improve the accessibility of mental health care for individuals with CVD. This chapter gives an overview on IMIs in the treatment of depression in individuals with CVD. First, a description of the main characteristics of IMIs, i.e., technical implementation, human support, theory, areas of application, ethics, and data security, is provided. The evidence base is described in terms of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of IMIs for individuals with CVD and depression as well as an overview on potentially effect-moderating factors such as using technological and human support as adherence facilitating components of IMIs. Finally, implementation possibilities and barriers are discussed including considerations on how IMIs should be used to fully exploit their potential for individuals with CVD and depression.