Publications [#270756] of James A. Blumenthal

Journal Articles

1. Lett, HS; Blumenthal, JA; Babyak, MA; Catellier, DJ; Carney, RM; Berkman, LF; Burg, MM; Mitchell, P; Jaffe, AS; Schneiderman, N (2008). In Response. Health Psychology : Official Journal of the Division of Health Psychology, American Psychological Association, 27(1), 1-3. [Gateway.cgi], [doi]
   (last updated on 2024/01/01)

   Abstract:
   Replies to comments by B. D. Thombs on the original article by H. S. Lett et al on social support and prognosis in patients at increased psychosocial risk following myocardial infarction. Lett et al agree that there is no "gold standard" for how to best assess social support but disagree with the premises that we should not screen what we cannot treat and that low social support is not modifiable. They believe that the limited time and mental health resources busy cardiology practices have to devote to psychosocial assessment is not a legitimate reason not to assess for risk factors and comorbidities such as depression and low social support. They indicate that there is now compelling evidence for the prognostic importance of both depression and low social support. Currently, organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recognize this clinical need and are working with psychologists and other mental health professionals to develop clinical guidelines for assessing and treating depression and determining when to refer patients for more formal assessment and treatment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved).