New combo therapy aims to lift mood after heart surgery in seniors

NCT ID NCT05575128

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Washington University School of Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a program combining behavioral activation (helping people do meaningful activities) and medication optimization (adjusting meds) can reduce depression and anxiety in adults 60 and older undergoing heart surgery. 105 participants were split into two groups: one received the program, the other usual care. The goal was to see if symptoms improved 3 months after surgery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: behavioral activation and medication optimization
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to improve mental health recovery after heart surgery in older adults.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study (105 participants) without a later phase, so results may not apply broadly. The intervention combines two approaches, making it hard to know which part helped.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder Depression depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANXIETY CARDIAC SURGERY DEPRESSION OLDER ADULTS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Washington University in St. Louis

St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States

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