Mindfulness-based relapse prevention – A meta-analysis

The role of meditation and mindfulness in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome: a scoping review

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) presents multifaceted challenges affecting women's reproductive, metabolic, and psychological systems, consequently impacting their psychological and emotional well-being. The utilization of meditation and mindfulness interventions (MMIs) is found to be increasing for the management of PCOS. This scoping review systematically explored the current literature to identify the type and application of MMIs for PCOS management. A systematic search of literature was conducted using CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases for identifying studies conducted on the usage of MMIs in women diagnosed with PCOS, irrespective of age. The comprehensive search identified 14 trials (comprising 17 citations) meeting inclusion criteria, involving 723 participants across various age groups. Among these, nine were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), while the remaining comprised non-RCTs. Several types of MMIs, including Rajayoga of Brahmakumaris, Yoga Nidra, OM cyclic meditation, unspecified forms of meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction programs, mindful yoga, and mindfulness-based activities, were used. Outcomes were predominantly assessed in psychological domains (n=11), followed by anthropometric (n=9), quality of life (n=7), and metabolic metrics (n=7). The review findings suggest the integration of meditation with conventional treatment modalities. Preliminary data indicate that MMIs have the potential to improve psychosocial well-being and quality of life among PCOS-affected women. However, adequately powered studies with extended follow-up periods are required to investigate the mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy of MMIs, particularly concerning reproductive outcomes and weight management. Furthermore, diligent monitoring and reporting of adverse events and adherence are essential for a comprehensive understanding of MMI utilization in PCOS management.

Correlates of Smoking, Work Stress, and Mindful Awareness among Private Hospital Workers in Istanbul

Background: The recent increase in workload and stress experienced by healthcare workers (HCW) is a significant global concern. Mindfulness enables one to be aware of emotions, thoughts, and present moment experiences. Objectives: The primary objective of this research is to investigate the correlates between smoking, occupational stress, and mindful awareness levels, among HCWs within the private healthcare sector. This study was conducted at a tertiary-level university-affiliated hospital in Istanbul between January - February 2023. 208 HCW participated, yielding a response rate of 20%. The participants were requested to complete a 61-item questionnaire consisting of demographics, General Work Stress Scale(GWS), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and Test to Assess the Psychological Dependence on Smoking (TAPDS). Results: Smokers had significantly higher levels of mean GWS scores than nonsmokers. The mean MAAS scores of smokers were the lowest in the group with the highest scores of psychological dependence; it was highest in the group with the lowest scores. A negative correlation was found between general work stress and mindful awareness levels and between psychological dependence on smoking and mindfulness levels. HCWs aged 45 and older had significantly lower general stress than others. Conclusion: This study showed that the general work stress levels of smoker HCWs were higher than those of nonsmokers. Mindful awareness level was the lowest in the group, with the highest scores in psychological dependence on smoking. There was a negative correlation between psychological dependence on smoking and both work stress and mindful awareness levels. This study demonstrated that high work stress and low mindful awareness levels are not only related to each other but also to high psychological dependence on smoking.

Evaluating the effectiveness of mobile app-based self-guided psychological intervention to reduce craving and lapse risk in problematic substance use and behaviors: Protocol for a randomized control trial in the general population

Background

The prevalence of substance and behavioral addiction is estimated between 10 and 15% of the global population and remains a severe public health concern. Moreover, addiction treatment has several barriers, such as a lack of access to professional treatment or stigmatization. Mobile health interventions emerge as a promising solution.

Methods

This two-armed randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to assess the efficacy of a mobile app-based self-guided psychological intervention delivered via a smartphone app (Nałogometr) in reducing craving and lapse risk in problematic behaviors and substance use compared to a control condition. Participant recruitment and data collection will start in June 2022 and end in September 2022. Due to the nature of the study, i.e., a nationwide study of problematic substance use and behaviors, we will aim to recruit all individuals willing to participate. The four-week intervention condition includes short-term and long-term modules based mainly on mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. Longitudinal data on several variables related to craving and lapse risk are collected daily using ecological momentary assessment (EMA). The primary outcomes of interest will be the self-reported number of lapses and craving level in daily EMA. Moreover, a questionnaire battery assessment is administered at baseline in the first week following onboarding, after five weeks, and after six months. The secondary outcome measures will include the severity of problematic substance use or behaviors, anxiety and depression, and life satisfaction.

Results

Results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Clinical trial registration

[https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [NCT054 34,429].

Need for mindfulness-based relapse prevention strategies for postpartum smoking relapse prevention

The health concerns for women are varied from that of men and are of higher concern. To increase this concern, women have recorded higher smoking relapse rates than men were an alarming 60% to 90% of the women who have attempted to quit relapse within their first year. Women who quit during pregnancy are seen to have higher rates of relapse than others. Such postpartum relapse has detrimental effects on the mother as well as the newborn. Mindfulness-based interventions have seen benefits in the areas of substance abuse and relapse prevention. Although research in the area of mindfulness and its benefits on smoking cessation has been limited, literature shows positive outcomes. This brief article examines the need for mindfulness-based relapse prevention strategies for women who are undergoing postpartum smoking relapses so that they could benefit from the same.