Couples-based Intervention for Cardiovascular Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The trial aims to determine if the Healing Hearts Together program, a couples-based intervention, can improve relationship quality, mental health, quality of life, and heart health for couples. Participants will either engage in this program or continue with their usual care for comparison. The study examines changes after 8 weeks and again 6 months later. This trial suits couples living together, with one partner receiving care at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, who can participate in the program for 6 months. As an unphased trial, it offers couples a unique opportunity to enhance their relationship and health while contributing to valuable research.
What prior data suggests that the Healing Hearts Together program is safe?
Research shows that the Healing Hearts Together (HHT) program is designed to assist couples managing heart disease. Studies have found that supportive relationships can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, including heart disease. Thus, the program aims to strengthen relationships, offering a generally safe and non-invasive approach. No reports of negative effects from the HHT program have emerged in the studies available. Participants in similar programs have found them manageable. As this trial does not involve testing a medical drug or device, it is likely safe for participants.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the "Healing Hearts Together" program because it takes a unique couples-based approach to managing cardiovascular disease. Unlike standard treatments that often focus solely on medication and lifestyle changes for the individual, this intervention involves both partners working together to improve heart health. The program emphasizes mutual support and communication, potentially enhancing adherence to healthy behaviors and reducing stress, which can significantly impact cardiovascular health. By addressing the emotional and relational aspects of heart disease, "Healing Hearts Together" offers a holistic way to improve outcomes for patients and their partners.
What evidence suggests that the Healing Hearts Together program could be effective for cardiovascular disease?
Research has shown that the Healing Hearts Together (HHT) program, which participants in this trial may receive, can enhance relationship satisfaction, mental health, and overall quality of life for couples dealing with heart disease. Studies have found that couples participating in emotionally focused programs like HHT often experience lower heart rates and reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol during challenging times. Supportive couple relationships are linked to a lower risk of developing long-term illnesses, including heart disease. Specifically, one study found that patients in happy relationships were more than three times as likely to survive 15 years after heart bypass surgery. These findings suggest that HHT could effectively improve both relationship and heart health.12467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for couples over 18 years old where one partner has cardiovascular disease. They must be cohabiting, able to commit for 6 months, and understand English. Couples already in therapy or with psychiatric illness/cognitive impairment that affects participation are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo the 8-week Healing Hearts Together (HHT) program or receive usual care
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in relationship quality, mental health, quality of life, and cardiovascular health
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Healing Hearts Together
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ottawa Heart Institute Research Corporation
Lead Sponsor