Nurse-led cognitive behavioural therapy for respiratory patients.

Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and have a negative impact on patients’ physical functioning, use of healthcare resources and mortality. Risk factors for and rates of psychological difficulties are currently higher due to the coronavirus pandemic. A recent trial demonstrated the clinical effectiveness of a cognitive behavioural therapy intervention delivered by respiratory nurses, and surveys have shown they feel psychological support is an important part of their role. Barriers remain to patients receiving mental health support; however, this intervention could provide an important step towards improving access.