Table 1 Characteristics of included RCTs

Berg et al. 2014 [41]

99/97

57.15

32.44 %

Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation

SF-36

Baseline, 3 m, 6 m, 12 m

Exercise training; twice a week

12w

Psycho-education; once/month for 6 months, and every 2 months for the next 6 months

12 m

Habibovic et al. 2014 [42]

146/143

55.9

≤ 35 % (63.7 % of patients)

Online problem-solving course based on CBT principles

12w

SF-12

Baseline, 3 m, 6 m, 12 m

Irvine et al. 2011 [43]

94/91

64.39

≤ 35 % (19.7 % of patients)

CBT in eight telephone sessions, psycho-educational book, CD with meditation exercises, muscle relaxation

8w

SF-36

Baseline, 6 m, 12 m

Crössmann et al. 2010 [44]

63/56

60.71

No report

Psychological treatment by phone call

6 m

SF-36

Baseline, 6 m

Kuhl et al. 2009 [45]

15/15

57.44

≤ 35 % (78.2 % of patients)

PACER-CD-ROM-based on psycho-educational CBT

4w

SF-12

Baseline, 1 m

Sears et al. 2007 [46]

15/15

59.77

No report

Components of ICD Shock and Stress Management Program

6w

SF-12

Baseline, 2 m, 4 m

ICD-specific education

Relaxation/stress management training

Cognitive-behavioral techniques

Group discussion and social support

Dougherty et al. 2004 [47]

84/84

64.04

33.78 %

Nursing telephone support

8w

SF-12

Baseline, 1 m, 3 m

ICD recovery management

Enhance self-confidence

Reduce emotional distress

Structure information provided