Self-help relaxation for post-stroke anxiety: a randomised, controlled pilot study

Abstract

Preliminary evidence suggests that autogenic relaxation training delivered in a self-help CD format is a feasible and acceptable intervention, and that anxiety is reduced in stroke survivors who received the intervention. Future studies should seek to recruit a larger and more heterogeneous sample of 70 participants.

Training in positivity for stroke? A qualitative study of acceptability of use of Positive Mental Training (PosMT) as a tool to assist stroke survivors with post-stroke psychological problems and in coping with rehabilitation

“…Interventions that focus on improving general wellbeing and reducing anxiety including cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation and mindfulness meditation have shown benefit to stroke survivors. (Golding et al, 2015;Johansson et al, 2012;Lawrence et al, 2013) Training in positivity, however goes beyond addressing negative symptomatology and promoting relaxation and mindfulness, to help survivors to focus on positive outcomes by letting go of anxiety related to carrying out of tasks, and increasing motivation to attain goals. In particular, the PosMT has been developed based on sports psychology techniques where visualisation of future performance after positive emotional generation, a recognised technique for improving physical and mental outcomes has been employed.…”

“…Kneebone & Jeffries, 2013;Kootker et al, 2015) Wellbeing approaches such as mindfulness training and relaxation therapy show promise in the stroke population. (Golding, Kneebone, & Fife-Schaw, 2015;Johansson, Bjuhr, & Ronnback, 2012;Lawrence, Booth, Mercer, & Crawford, 2013) Such approaches, however, often require intense training for greatest effect. There is a potential role for interventions for post-stroke psychological problems to help with coping with the stressors of rehabilitation that are evidencebased, simple and not costly to deliver.…”

A study of the validity and the reliability of the Geriatric Anxiety Inventory in screening for anxiety after stroke in older inpatients

“…Responsiveness to change in anxiety was not considered in the current evaluation. This is important to consider as treatments become available that can address this problem in older people after stroke (33)(34)(35).…”

Post-Stroke Psychiatric Disorders: An Overview on Its Screening and Management

“…Autogenic relaxation training is available in a self-help CD format; moreover it is advantageous and acceptable treatment for reducing anxiety in stroke survivors [67]. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga is beneficial, less costly and helps in reducing stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorders, and stress-related medical conditions; moreover, it maintains the balance of autonomic nervous system.…”