Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health Comorbidities in Hypertension Care Strategies: A Narrative Review

Background: Hypertension and mental health comorbidities, especially depression and anxiety, are prevalent in the same patient populations, contributing to poor outcomes. The bidirectional relationship between these conditions makes management more challenging, impacting treatment adherence and long-term health.  Purpose: This review aims to examine the prevalence, impact, and management of mental health comorbidities in patients with hypertension, focusing on how depression and anxiety affect hypertension control and the strategies available for improving care.  Methods: A systematic review of studies was conducted, focusing on the interaction between hypertension and mental health disorders. Inclusion criteria were studies that explored the prevalence, mechanisms, and outcomes of hypertension and mental health comorbidities, with a focus on interventions and integrated care approaches.  Results: The review found that mental health comorbidities, particularly depression and anxiety, are prevalent in hypertensive patients. These conditions negatively affect medication adherence, lifestyle changes, and blood pressure control, leading to poor cardiovascular outcomes. Integrated care models that combine mental health and hypertension management were found to improve patient outcomes.  Conclusion: Addressing mental health comorbidities in hypertension care is essential for improving both physical and psychological health. Routine screening for mental health disorders, integrated care approaches, and digital health tools are key to managing the dual burden of hypertension and mental health issues.