Editorial: Mental Imagery in Clinical Disorders

Effect of Tele-Guided Imagery on Stress among Caregivers of Chronic Neurological Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Objectives  Chronic neurological conditions impose a burden on caregivers as they are a major contributor for disability-adjusted life years of patients. Stress is the common psychological concern of caregivers. This randomized controlled study examined the effect of tele-guided imagery on stress among caregivers of these neurological patients.

Methods  Thirty caregivers were selected for participation in study as per the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned into experimental and control groups. Initial caregivers' mental health screening was performed with the mini-mental state examination tool. For outcome measure, perceived stress scale (PSS) score tool was utilized and both pre- and postintervention scores were noted. Effect of tele-guided intervention was compared with the control group.

Results  Significant difference was noted in the PSS scores among the caregivers receiving tele-guided imagery when compared with controlled group caregivers.

Conclusion  Tele-guided imagery is an effective tool for stress management among caregivers. Also, it improves the individual's mental health aspect.

Characteristics and content of intrusive images in patients with eating disorders

The aim of this study was to examine the characteristics and content of intrusive images in patients with different subtypes of eating disorders (EDs). Data were collected from 74 ED patients, 22 dieting, and 29 nondieting controls. Participants completed a set of self-report questionnaires. Intrusive images of ED patients were significantly more repetitive, detailed, vivid, and distressing than intrusive images of dieting and/or nondieting controls. Most of the intrusive images were the same for the ED subtypes; however, patients with anorexia nervosa were more likely to report an observer vantage perspective than patients with bulimia nervosa, who were more likely to report a field vantage perspective. As expected, intrusive images' content was related to body checking (weight and shape) or negative self (evaluated by themselves or others). Finally, there were significant associations between intrusive images' vividness and weight and shape concerns. These findings indicate that intrusive images may be a core element of EDs and targeting intrusive images in therapy may be helpful.