Mind-Body Intervention in Earthquake Survivors: 6 mo RCT

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

combined mind-body intervention: The intervention consists of 8 individual sessions (30-40 mins, twice weekly) combining Jacobson's Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) and Guided Imagery. Sessions begin with 5 minutes of diaphragmatic breathing. PMR involves 15 minutes of tensing and relaxing specific muscle groups (limbs, face, trunk) to reduce physical tension. This is followed by 15 minutes of Guided Imagery, visualizing sensory-rich "safe places" (e.g., childhood gardens) to promote emotional regulation. Participants perform 15-minute daily home practice. Sessions take place in a quiet, dimly lit environment with relaxing music. For physiological standardization, participants avoid caffeine, nicotine, and food one hour before. This occupational therapy protocol aims to enhance participation in daily activities (self-care, work, leisure) and reduce stress levels

Routine Care and Follow-up Phone Calls: Participants receive their standard routine care. Additionally, they will be contacted by phone twice a week for 4 weeks by the primary investigator to inquire about their general health and well-being. These calls are limited to status inquiries to ensure that any observed changes in the study are due to the intervention itself rather than the attention provided by the researcher.

Study summary

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether a 4-week program called "Combined Mind-Body Intervention" can help survivors of the February 6, 2023, earthquakes manage stress and improve their ability to participate in daily activities. The study specifically aims to answer the following question: Does a program combining guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation lead to significant, long-term improvements in occupational performance (self-care, work, and leisure), reduced stress levels, and better overall quality of life for earthquake survivors when compared to a control group?

The study will involve:

Target Population: Adults aged 18 to 65 who directly experienced the 2023 earthquakes and currently reside in the affected region .Intervention: Participants in the intervention group will attend eight individual sessions (twice a week) focusing on deep breathing, step-by-step muscle relaxation, and guided visualization of peaceful environments.

Evaluation: Changes in stress, mood, and daily activity performance will be measured at the beginning of the study, at the end of the 4-week program, and during a 6-month follow-up period to determine the lasting effects of the intervention.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) - Performance and Satisfaction Scores — Baseline, at the end of the 4-week intervention, and at the 6-month follow-up.
  The COPM is a semi-structured interview used to identify and prioritize issues in occupational performance. Participants rate their perceived performance and satisfaction for their top five identified problem areas in daily activities (self-care, productivity, and leisure). Both scales use a 10-point Likert scale ranging from 1 ("not able to do it" or "not satisfied") to 10 ("able to do it extremely well" or "extremely satisfied") . Higher scores indicate better occupational performance and higher satisfaction.

Trial sites (1)

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