Overview
- Researchers synthesized 16 studies, including 12 randomized trials with about 1,444 couples, and found 77% of programs improved health behaviors.
- Mental-health benefits appeared in 63% of studies but were inconsistent, and randomized trials showed no clear gains in relationship quality.
- Most programs were nurse-led, started during or shortly after hospitalization, lasted around three months, and largely involved participants in the U.S. or Sweden with predominantly White samples.
- Evidence for fewer cardiac events remains unclear because most trials were underpowered, prompting calls for larger, more diverse studies with standardized clinical and relational endpoints.
- Authors recommend interventions that directly target emotion regulation and relationship dynamics, use stepped-care screening, and assess outcomes for both patients and partners; the American Heart Association advises supportive involvement without taking over the patient’s responsibilities.