The effect of cognitive-behavioral therapy on death anxiety and depression in patients with heart failure: A quasi-experimental study

Purpose: In this study, the effect of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on death anxiety and depression was investigated in patients with heart failure.

Design and methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 66 patients with heart failure were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 33) and control (n = 33) groups. Data collection was done using a demographic questionnaire, Templer death anxiety scale, and Beck depression inventory.

Findings: It was found that the overall scores of death anxiety and depression in posttest were significantly lower than those at the follow-up stage in the intervention group.

Practice implications: CBT could significantly reduce death anxiety and depression in patients with heart failure. Therefore, it is recommended to equip nurses with CBT trainings to manage patients with heart failure better.