Advances In Mind-body Medicine[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Schizophrenia Symptom Alleviation Through Implementation of a Lifestyle Intervention Program.
Brogan K, Jarvi A, Klopf H … +1 more , Turner T
Adv Mind Body Med · 2020 Spring · PMID 32822331
BACKGROUND: This case report illustrates the use of a lifestyle intervention program entitled "Vital Mind Reset" which led to the alleviation of disabling schizophrenic symptomology. SUMMARY: A 22-year-old male with onse...
BACKGROUND: This case report illustrates the use of a lifestyle intervention program entitled "Vital Mind Reset" which led to the alleviation of disabling schizophrenic symptomology. SUMMARY: A 22-year-old male with onset of Tourette's Syndrome and depression with suicidal ideation as a teenager began declining in mental vitality, resulting in the eventual diagnosis of treatment-resistant schizophrenia at the age of 17. At this time, he was admitted to an adolescent mental health ward due to delusional thinking and auditory hallucinations. Despite administration of a multitude of antipsychotic medications throughout the ensuing years, he was admitted yearly to the same hospital during the winter months until 2015. The patient began the Vital Mind Reset (VMR) program in 2017, committing to a series of lifestyle interventions which included dietary modifications, daily meditations, and detoxification practices. After completing the program, the patient experienced significantly improved quality of life, as he was once again able to leave his house. One year after completing the program, his physicians reported his schizophrenia appeared "to be in remission." Given these results, when medication and conventional therapies gain limited progress, lifestyle interventions outlined in the VMR program should be considered, perhaps even as first-line therapy. This case defies the chronicity of severe psychiatric symptomologies such as schizophrenia and exemplifies the potential for healing and resolution of persistent psychiatric illness.
Working (it) Out: An Heuristic Enquiry Into Psychotherapy and Physical Exercise.
Harrison D, Tudor K
Adv Mind Body Med · 2020 Spring · PMID 32822330
Psychotherapy is predominantly a sedentary practice that, with rare exceptions, does not involve much physical activity on the part of either the client or the therapist. In response to this situation, the article examin...
Psychotherapy is predominantly a sedentary practice that, with rare exceptions, does not involve much physical activity on the part of either the client or the therapist. In response to this situation, the article examines three concerns: the impact of sedentarism on psychotherapists; the disconnection between the evidence of the benefit of physical exercise on psychological wellbeing and the predominant focus in psychotherapy on the sedentary mind; and the implications of the disconnection between psychotherapists' own minds and bodies. of the method employed was an heuristic enquiry conducted by the first author (reflected in the "I" and the "my" voice in the article), under the supervision of the second author. Drawing on and interweaving relevant literature throughout, the enquiry explores the first author's own relationship with exercise and, specifically, boxing, as both a practice (i.e., physical exercise) and as a metaphor for the heuristic research process (a psychological and intellectual exercise).
The Effectiveness of Massage for Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review.
Güçhan Topcu Z, Tomaç H
Adv Mind Body Med · 2020 Spring · PMID 32822329
CONTEXT: Massage is a widely used alternative therapy among health professionals and parents for children with cerebral palsy (CP). OBJECTIVE: The review intended to determine the effects of massage on the rehabilitation...
CONTEXT: Massage is a widely used alternative therapy among health professionals and parents for children with cerebral palsy (CP). OBJECTIVE: The review intended to determine the effects of massage on the rehabilitation of children with CP. DESIGN: The research team conducted a literature review that examined the use of massage for children with various types of CP, such as ataxia, using relevant keywords. It included articles published up to December 2019. The research team searched the electronic databases PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. SETTING: The study took place at Eastern Mediterranean University in Famagusta, Cyprus. PARTICIPANTS: Participants in the reviewed studies were children with CP. OUTCOME MEASURES: The strength of the research designs was rated using Sackett's Levels of Evidence. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to assess the studies' methodological quality. The outcome measures were classified according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). RESULTS: Eleven studies that included 297 CP children were reviewed. According to the PEDro scores, 5 studies had high methodological quality; 5 studies had fair quality; and one study had poor quality. No study investigated the effects of massage for all classifications of the ICF. Muscle tone was decreased significantly in the reviewed studies, either between the groups or within the massage group (P < .05). No consensus existed about the other effects of massage due to the limited research. CONCLUSIONS: This study is a first review in this area and can be an important guide for professionals and caregivers who want properly use massage for children with CP. Massage as an adjunct to traditional therapies should be used to reduce muscle tone in spastic-type CP. More clear methods and relevant outcome measures should be used in future studies. Further studies with randomized controlled trials are required to determine massage type, massage applier, and oil for this population and to investigate immediate and long-term effects of massage on all ICF's domains.
The Renewing Life Program and Women With Breast Cancer: A Report.
Johnson M, Foley Coleman J, Fermon B … +2 more , Pease M, Miller R
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Fall · PMID 32738038
SETTING: Pathways: A Healing Center in Minneapolis Minnesota, received a Susan G. Komen grant to provide three Renewing LifeTM retreats at no cost for breast cancer survivors with limited income. Renewing Life is an inte...
SETTING: Pathways: A Healing Center in Minneapolis Minnesota, received a Susan G. Komen grant to provide three Renewing LifeTM retreats at no cost for breast cancer survivors with limited income. Renewing Life is an intensive program for dealing with life challenges and is a signature program of the Pathways Center. The program focuses on communication skills, coping strategies, and life-affirming attitudes; it is offered either as a 9-week session, meeting 1 day a week as a group for 2-1/2 hours or as a retreat over 2-½ days (20 hours) at an overnight facility. METHODS: This report describes outcomes of a Renewing Life retreat focusing on perceived changes in well-being as well as behaviors in the management of breast cancer treatment. A mixed-methods approach was used in an effort to capture the unique experience of each woman in this group. Quantitative data using the Self-Assessment of Change measure was collected through a retrospective survey sent to each member following the Renewing Life program. Follow-up interviews were used to identify themes that spoke to the more intimate nature of their experiences, including perceived shifts in well-being and quality of life. OUTCOMES AND CONCLUSIONS: The use of a mixed methods approach (qualitative and quantitative data) to evaluating the outcomes perceived by a group of women with breast cancer after participating in a Renewing Life Retreat offers insights into the unique experience of these women.
Psychotropic Drug Withdrawal and Holistic Tapering Strategies: A Case Series.
Brogan K, Siefert A, Whitson E … +2 more , Kirsh L, Sweetan V
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Fall · PMID 32738037
This case series aims to further the understanding of psychotropic drug withdrawal symptoms, as well as how individuals may be supported using holistic approaches for long term mood support. A secondary objective is to c...
This case series aims to further the understanding of psychotropic drug withdrawal symptoms, as well as how individuals may be supported using holistic approaches for long term mood support. A secondary objective is to contribute to the evidence base for differentiating psychotropic drug withdrawal from the resurgence of psychiatric symptoms. Patients are described in two groups based on the timeline of psychotropic tapering. Group A illustrates cases of tapering safely from psychotropic medications under the supervision of the author of this case series, and Group B describes cases of individuals who sought mood support for protracted withdrawal symptoms. Both groups were treated with dietary changes, mindfulness practices, detoxification-supported gut health protocols, hormonal regulation, and treatment of comorbidities. Use of complementary medicine reduced many of the acute symptoms of psychotropic drug withdrawal, such as sleep disturbances, decreased concentration, nausea/headaches, and depression, making the process more manageable for patients. Additionally, many of the initial psychiatric complaints were kept in remission. These methods present a sustainable alternative to long-term treatment of mood symptoms and comorbid chronic illnesses. This case series indicates the benefits of integrating holistic and conventional medicine in psychotropic drug tapering, and a call for further trials to create an evidence-based database to guide future treatment and taper protocols.
Yoga Therapy For Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms.
Kashyap A, Chopra S, Ranjan P … +3 more , Sarkar S, Poorna A, Baitha U
Adv Mind Body Med · 2020 Winter · PMID 32277750
Medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) is a common, yet neglected disease with a prevalence of around 25% in primary care setting. These patients present with multiple physical and psychological symptoms, without...
Medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) is a common, yet neglected disease with a prevalence of around 25% in primary care setting. These patients present with multiple physical and psychological symptoms, without an underlying diagnosis, hampering their functional and mental wellbeing. The management of these undiagnosed symptoms through conventional treatment has not been encouraging. Patients shuttle between different specialities, seeking a diagnosis for their symptoms, making them dissatisfied and increasing healthcare burden. Yoga, as an adjunct therapy has shown to be effective in the management of MUPS related disorders such as somatoform disorder, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and depression and anxiety. Thus, we suggest an integrated yoga module which might help in improving both physical and psychological variable in MUPS patients and improving their overall quality of life. Furthermore, the gap in the literature on the efficacy of yoga in improving MUPS, can be addressed by planning a randomised controlled trial based on the suggested yoga module.
Gospel Music: A Catalyst for Retention, Engagement, and Positive Health Outcomes for African Americans in a Cardiovascular Prevention and Treatment Program.
Bittman B, Poornima I, Smith MA … +1 more , Heidel RE
Adv Mind Body Med · 2020 Winter · PMID 32277749
CONTEXT: Mortality associated with cardiovascular disease is significantly higher in African Americans compared with people of other ethnicities, with hypertension being the single most significant risk factor in this po...
CONTEXT: Mortality associated with cardiovascular disease is significantly higher in African Americans compared with people of other ethnicities, with hypertension being the single most significant risk factor in this population. Underdiagnosis and undertreatment of hypertension is common. Although cardiovascular lifestyle education and self-management programs are available for the general public, many African Americans prefer to learn about health-promoting activities through interactive programs led by church ministries. OBJECTIVE: This study examined the influence of adding a faith-based protocol using creative musical expression as a catalyst for improving retention, engagement, and positive health outcomes for African Americans participating in a 1-y, lifestyle skills program for reducing cardiovascular risk factors. DESIGN: The study was a randomized, controlled trial. SETTING: The study occurred at Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church (Pittsburgh, PA, USA). PARTICIPANTS: Participants were African Americans with at least 2 of the following medical conditions: high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and/or triglycerides, heart attack, angina, stroke, irregular heartbeats, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, diabetes, and tobacco use. INTERVENTION: Intervention and control groups both participated every other week in one 45-min structured cardiovascular risk reduction educational session over the course of 1 year. During alternative weeks, sessions comprised blood pressure checks, coupled with individualized support discussions focused on challenges and identified obstacles to adherence. In addition to the aforementioned sessions, the intervention group participated in a novel gospel music program with weekly, 45-minute vocal and instrumental sessions. OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcome measures include retention, attendance, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, weight, body mass index, hip measurement, and waist measurement as well as the Short Form-12 (SH-12) Health Survey. RESULTS: Subjects in the intervention group demonstrated a statistically significant 83.3% retention rate in the course of 1 year compared with only 54.3% for the control group (cardiovascular lifestyle education sessions alone). Six dropouts were noted in the intervention group in sharp contrast to 16 dropouts in the control group. Participants in the intervention group were 4.21 times more likely to complete the program than the control group. A significant difference was also noted for attendance, which was higher for the intervention group (21.33 sessions for the intervention group vs 17.95 sessions for the control group). Statistically significant systolic blood pressure reductions noted in both groups were sustained 6 mo postprogram conclusion. In addition, a statistically significant pre-between post-between group improvement in SF-12 Physical Component Scores was noted for intervention subjects in sharp contrast with controls who actually demonstrated worsening scores. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of a gospel music program as a catalyst for increase engagement in a sustainable, healthy lifestyle program warrants further consideration and additional study in African American churches.
Reward System: A Guide For Wellness.
Dragoni Divrak D
Adv Mind Body Med · 2020 Winter · PMID 32277748
With this writing I want to focus on reward system being this the place of wellness signaling molecules, of health regulation, of needs and also of human rights ruling. As in some of my previous writing I will describe t...
With this writing I want to focus on reward system being this the place of wellness signaling molecules, of health regulation, of needs and also of human rights ruling. As in some of my previous writing I will describe the neuro-anatomo-physiology of reward system, I will focus on which are the CNS main centers involved, on the pathways and their functions. I will insist on the fact that reward is the place where we distinct bad from good and is also the system of pathways that regulates our health. Being this clear, I will describe a bit more in depth the reward strategies: I talk about the quantity and quality right diet, the fitness need, the mindfulness human right, the affective life importance, and the sleep human right too. I also describe acupuncture relationships with reward system. In conclusion I give the perspective that reward system is important since it is strictly related with the right lifestyle practice and the pursuing of the human rights for everyone on this World.
Successful Discontinuation of Chronic Polypsychotropic Regimen and Resolution of Withdrawal Syndrome Through Nutrition and Lifestyle Interventions: A Case Report.
Brogan K, Siefert A
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Summer · PMID 31605602
BACKGROUND: A 38-year-old, female with a history of GAD, MDD, AN, and PTSD wanted to taper her multiple medications in preparation for pregnancy. Benzodiazepine medications, such as Klonopin and Restoril; antidepressants...
BACKGROUND: A 38-year-old, female with a history of GAD, MDD, AN, and PTSD wanted to taper her multiple medications in preparation for pregnancy. Benzodiazepine medications, such as Klonopin and Restoril; antidepressants, such as Effexor; and anticonvulsant medications, such as Lamictal, can be habit-forming, and withdrawal symptoms can occur upon discontinuation of use. Polypharmacy can be implicated in poor clinical outcomes, and a strategic and supported medication taper may improve those outcomes. SUMMARY: After the primary MD unsuccessfully attempted to taper off the patient's psychotropic medications without lifestyle interventions, she was stabilized on a minimal regimen by an outside reproductive psychiatrist throughout her pregnancy. A second tapering was implemented by the primary MD after the patient had given birth and had established changes to her lifestyle. These lifestyle interventions included dietary changes, use of detoxification protocols, contemplative practices, and strategic supplement support in the setting of a powerful mindset shift. The patient experienced remarkable symptom remission after strategic discontinuation of medications through the addition of the lifestyle interventions. She also was able to heal the root-cause drivers of her psychiatric diagnoses. Currently she is symptom-free and medication-free after nearly 21 years. CONCLUSIONS: This case demonstrates the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions and psychospiritual support to enable dramatic clinical change without withdrawal syndrome after cessation of medication. More important, the initial failed tapering underpins the notion that a diligent meditation practice may be necessary to heal root-cause drivers of psychiatric symptoms and withdrawal syndrome. The results may serve to inform practitioners assisting patients who wish to discontinue benzodiazepine and other psychotropic medications or patients who would like to try a nonpharmaceutical approach as a first-line therapy.
The Association between Affect and Biomarkers of Stress and Inflammation in Healthy Seventh-Day Adventists.
Dos Santos H, Raphael JC, Reis WP … +4 more , Gaio J, Berk LS, Bellinger DL, Lee JW
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Summer · PMID 31605601
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between positive and negative affective states with stress biomarkers, biomarkers of inflammation and blood pressure in a population of healthy Seventh-day Adventists. DESIGN: In a...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between positive and negative affective states with stress biomarkers, biomarkers of inflammation and blood pressure in a population of healthy Seventh-day Adventists. DESIGN: In a cross-sectional study, biomarkers were regressed on positive and negative affect and control variables among reportedly healthy 133 females and 100 males (35% Black and 65% White) who provided blood and urine samples following completion of a questionnaire and measurement of anthropometrics and vital signs. SETTING/LOCATION: Data were extracted from the Biological Manifestations of Religion Study, an NIA-funded study conducted in members of the entity who lived within driving distance of two clinic sites. OUTCOME MEASURES: The stress biomarkers, epinephrine, and norepinephrine, were measured in 12-hour overnight urine samples analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Urinary cortisol was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and normalized for urinary output (reported in µg/g creatinine). Serum DHEA-S (reported in µg/ml) was measured by ELISA. Inflammatory markers included CRP (ng/ml), IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α, all analyzed in serum by ELISA, and the data expressed in pg/ml. RESULTS: Multiple linear regression analyses showed after controlling for age, gender, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), education, socioeconomic status, exercise, and use of blood pressure medication, that negative affect was associated with higher levels of epinephrine (β = .143; P = .030). Positive affect was not associated with the biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS: While negative affect was associated with a biomarker of sympathetic stimulation, positive affect was not protective against such stimulation.
Psychosomatic and Physical Well-Being Factors After Mind-Body Interventions in a Hospital Setting.
Mohapatra B, Shisler Marshall R
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Summer · PMID 31605600
CONTEXT: Mind-body interventions encompass a variety of treatments that directly affect health. Researchers have found that yoga can decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as improve dietary patterns, enhanc...
CONTEXT: Mind-body interventions encompass a variety of treatments that directly affect health. Researchers have found that yoga can decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as improve dietary patterns, enhance physical function and capacity, and enrich sleep. Research has shown that mindfulness can have psychological and physiological benefits and treat symptoms of anxiety and depression. OBJECTIVE: This study intended to compare the benefits of 2 mind-body interventions-yoga and mindfulness-in a hospital setting. DESIGN: The research team performed a retrospective analysis of outcome data obtained from a hospital's programs. SETTING: The study took place at a mind-body center at a hospital in Athens, GA (USA). PARTICIPANTS: Participants were 46 individuals enrolled either in a yoga (n = 24) or a mindfulness (n = 22) intervention program at the hospital. INTERVENTION: Participants self-selected a mind-body-intervention program offered at the hospital: yoga or mindfulness. They received guided training in their chosen intervention at weekly 2-h sessions for 6 to 9 wk. OUTCOME MEASURES: Participants completed measures of anxiety, depression, mindfulness, and quality of life at 2 points during the mind-body programs, at baseline and postintervention. The programs used the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Freiburg-Mindfulness Inventory (FMI), Automatic Thought Questionnaire (ATQ), and RAND 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). RESULTS: The results showed significant decreases between baseline and postintervention in depression (on BDI-II) and anxiety (on BAI) levels for participants in both groups; however, only participants in the mindfulness group showed significant increases in mindfulness (on FMI) and quality of life and decreases in the frequency of negative thoughts (on ATQ) and significant improvements in some health-related measures (on SF-36; all P < .05). However, a significant difference between the groups existed at postintervention only for limitations due to physical health on the SF-36. CONCLUSIONS: The overall findings suggest that both the programs are effective. Although significant differences existed between the groups only for limitations due to physical health, the significant increases in categories other than anxiety and depression for the mindfulness group suggest that mindfulness can offer a more encompassing intervention for improving psychosomatic well-being, although further research is needed.
Healing of Graves' Disease Thorough Lifestyle Changes: A Case Report.
Brogan K, Marcelino G, Pedro C … +1 more , Siefert A
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Spring · PMID 31476135
BACKGROUND: Graves' disease is known as a chronic and incurable disease. The typical treatment is symptom-based and consists of medications, radioiodine, or surgery. These last two treatments are routinely offered to the...
BACKGROUND: Graves' disease is known as a chronic and incurable disease. The typical treatment is symptom-based and consists of medications, radioiodine, or surgery. These last two treatments are routinely offered to the 50% of patients that do not respond to drug therapy. Here we report the case of a patient who was able to normalize her thyroid hormones as well as her autoimmune markers in 6 months with the exclusive implementation of lifestyle interventions. SUMMARY: A 34-year-old Dutch, Caucasian female diagnosed with Graves' disease since 2014 implemented lifestyle modifications, which included dietary change to an ancestral type of diet, oral health interventions, practice of kundalini yoga, avoidance of environmental toxicants (by only eating organic food, drinking filtered water, and using natural products to clean her house or for her personal hygiene) and supportive supplements when necessary. The patient did not take any antithyroid drugs or beta-blockers during this period nor any other type of medication that could have had immunosuppressant effects. After 6 months of engaging in these lifestyle interventions, her thyroid analysis normalized and no anti-thyrotropin receptor antibodies were negative. CONCLUSION: This case report demonstrates that Graves' disease can effectively be put into lasting remission without conventional medical interventions. It also emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle as a first line intervention for all patients but especially in the particular case of patients suffering from Graves' disease.
The Effect of a Tobacco Dependence Treatment Program With Stress Management Through Mindfulness Technique Training in US Veterans.
Mineyama Y, Hyder Ferry L, Arechiga A … +2 more , Dos Santos H, Berk L
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Spring · PMID 31476134
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether the Life-Change Stop Smoking Program (tobacco dependence treatment program with Stress Management/Mindfulness Training) was more effective in achieving 6 mo of...
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether the Life-Change Stop Smoking Program (tobacco dependence treatment program with Stress Management/Mindfulness Training) was more effective in achieving 6 mo of smoking abstinence among a high-risk group, such as US veterans at the Loma Linda Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, compared with the VA's conventional stop smoking program. The effects of participants' initial stress level and depression risk on achieving abstinence were also assessed. METHODS: Through examination of medical records and confirmation of exhaled air carbon monoxide level, abstinence status from smoking was determined at the 6-mo follow-up of the Life-Change Stop Smoking program (study group) participants and the Break the Chains program (comparison group, age and gender matched) participants. The 6-mo abstinence rates of the study group and comparison group were analzyed. RESULTS: The statistically significant level of difference (χ2 [P < .001], regression [P = .0000]) in 6-mo abstinence rates between groups was observed. CONCLUSION: The stop smoking program with Stress Management/Mindfulness Training was effective (64.6% in study group, 40.1% in comparison group, P < .001) in achieving 6 mo of smoking abstinence for the high-risk group.
Mindful Breathing Offers Relief for Myasthenia Gravis: A Case Report.
Kass R
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Winter · PMID 31370037
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a disease characterized by proximal muscle weakness due to autoimmunity against acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). This case studies one MG patient who participated in...
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a disease characterized by proximal muscle weakness due to autoimmunity against acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). This case studies one MG patient who participated in thirty-minute breathing sessions twice per week during her three week hospitalization. The patient's disease-related ptosis noticeably improved after each session. Slow breathing stimulates the parasympathetic response via the vagus nerve, which operates via acetylcholine efferents. Vagal stimulation may therefore provide more neurotransmitter for the reduced number of ACh receptors in MG, resulting in more efficient binding at the NMJ and reduction in symptoms. Additionally, these results may be explained by the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, wherein increased acetylcholine dampens the innate immune response. This report offers the possibility of a simple, non-pharmacological treatment of MG-related ptosis and potentially MG symptoms as a whole, with potential application toward other autoimmune disorders.
Treatment Emergent Violence To Self And Others; A Literature Review of Neuropsychiatric Adverse Reactions For Antidepressant And Neuroleptic Psychiatric Drugs And General Medications.
Clarke C, Evans J, Brogan K
Adv Mind Body Med · 2019 Winter · PMID 31370036
OBJECTIVE: This paper reviews the literature linking physical violence, directed towards self or others, to serotonergic and dopaminergic psychiatric drugs and general medications. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: Data about...
OBJECTIVE: This paper reviews the literature linking physical violence, directed towards self or others, to serotonergic and dopaminergic psychiatric drugs and general medications. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: Data about side effects, pharmacogenetics and homeostasis are obtained from articles, electronic Medicines Compendium, DSM-IV-TR, British National Formulary (BNF) and academic books. Statistics have been obtained from articles, The National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide by People with Mental Illness, Centre for Mental Health and Risk, Manchester, Mental Health Equalities, National Mental Health Development Unit and the NHS Health and Social Care Information Centre. Classification for neurotoxic conditions and mental illness are obtained from the DSM-IV-TR, DSM-V and ICD-10. FINDINGS: Psychiatric drugs and some general medications have effects that are not always the ones intended. Reactions to different drugs and drug-drug combinations are governed by individual metabolising rates. Phase 1 metabolism takes place via the cytochrome P450 enzymes with 57 human genes identified that are genetically variable i.e. polymorphic. The population are coded as poor, extensive (known as normal), intermediate or ultra rapid metabolisers. Variations in the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) and serotonin receptors (5-HT) influence the outcome of serotonergic medications. It is established genetic polymorphisms in the CYP450 and serotoninergic metabolising system cause higher drug blood levels which are associated with neuropsychiatric adverse drug reactions (ADRs), such as akathisia. If not recognised, akathisia, which often precedes violence, suicidality, homicide, mania and psychosis, may be mistaken for new or emergent mental illness and treated with further ineffective, counter-productive psychiatric drugs. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS: The absence of pharmaceutical data for CYP450 diminishing, null/non- functioning or multiple polymorphisms and variations in the 5-HTTLPR and 5-HT, linking general medications and psychiatric drugs with neuropsychiatric behavioural reactions is notable. There is limited information linking psychiatric drug disruption of homeostasis and neurotransmitters with violence. These issues indicate a need for greater pharmaceutical transparency and further research into the role of CYP450, 5-HTTLPR and 5-HT polymorphism associated neuropsychiatric ADRs for all psychiatric drugs and serotonergic general medications. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Safer prescribing is important and could be achieved by individual genotype testing, which would identify persons with genetic polymorphisms, who are unable to metabolise drugs. Prevention of violence would enhance peoples' well being, ground floor practitioner and public safety. CONCLUSION: This paper is the first review that implicates certain drugs as a cause of violence due to pharmacogentic polymorphisms and neurotransmitter disruption.
Mindfulness-based Group Intervention for an Adolescent Girl at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Report.
Dalager SL, Annameier S, Bruggink SM … +8 more , Pivarunas B, Coatsworth JD, Schmid AA, Bell C, Broderick P, Brown KW, Quaglia J, Shomaker LB
Adv Mind Body Med · 2018 Fall · PMID 31370035
CONTEXT: Behavioral lifestyle interventions to lower body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) are the standard approach for preventing adolescent-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D). Unfortunately, existing programs have had limited long-te...
CONTEXT: Behavioral lifestyle interventions to lower body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) are the standard approach for preventing adolescent-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D). Unfortunately, existing programs have had limited long-term success of lessening insulin resistance, the key physiological risk indicator for T2D. Underlying psychosocial factors, particularly depressive symptoms, have been related to insulin resistance, independent of BMI or body fat. Preliminary evidence indicates that mindfulness-based programs show promise for intervening with depression and T2D; yet, this approach is novel and data in adolescents are scarce. OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study were (1) to evaluate the benefits, and potential underlying mechanisms, of a mindfulness-based intervention in adolescents at-risk for T2D with depressive symptoms and (2) to consider clinical implementation with this specific, psychologically, and medically at-risk adolescent population. DESIGN AND SETTING: The research team conducted a case study report. The setting was an outpatient therapy clinic and research laboratory at a university. PARTICIPANT: The participant was a 16-y-old female with elevated depressive symptoms, obesity, and insulin resistance, and a family history of T2D. INTERVENTION AND OUTCOMES: The intervention was a 6-wk mindfulness-based group program. The key outcomes were patterns of change in trait mindfulness, depression, and insulin resistance in the course of a 1-y follow-up. Secondary outcomes were patterns of change in reported-overeating patterns and cortisol awakening response. RESULTS: Compared with her scores at baseline, the participant displayed a pattern of increased trait mindfulness, decreased depressive symptoms, and lessening of insulin resistance immediately following the group program and at 1 y. BMI and body fat were stable. There was a remission in reported-overeating and a pattern of declining cortisol awakening response 1 y later. Participant feedback on the intervention was generally positive but also provided potential modifications to strengthen acceptability and effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: The current case results suggest that teaching mindfulness skills to adolescent girls at risk for T2D with depressive symptoms may offer distinctive advantages for treating depression and T2D risk. Clinical implications for increasing the success of implementing mindfulness-based programs in this population include a focus on promotion of social connectedness within the group, implementation of strategies to increase adherence to home practice activities, and the use of facilitation techniques to promote concrete understanding of abstract mindfulness concepts. Future, adequately powered clinical trial data are required to test therapeutic mechanisms and recommended adaptations.
How Does Yoga Work on Pain Dimensions? An Integrated Perspective in 2 Individuals With Fibromyalgia.
Chiusalupi M, Crupi M, Rustici R … +1 more , Ciaramella A
Adv Mind Body Med · 2018 Fall · PMID 31370034
CONTEXT: The effectiveness of yoga has been studied in fibromyalgia (FM) using improvement in its 5 key dimensions-pain, quality of life, sleep, depression, and disability-as outcome measures. Studies have demonstrated a...
CONTEXT: The effectiveness of yoga has been studied in fibromyalgia (FM) using improvement in its 5 key dimensions-pain, quality of life, sleep, depression, and disability-as outcome measures. Studies have demonstrated an improvement in the psychosocial dimensions of pain after yoga practice, but these findings failed to reach statistical significance. Although studies have shown the efficacy of yoga in the modulation of pain, no study has yet investigated how it acts on each dimension of pain. OBJECTIVE: The study intended to investigate the dimensions of pain-sensory, evaluative, and/or affective-and which psychological comorbidities-anxiety and/or depression-that Hatha yoga affects in individuals with FM. DESIGN: The research team performed 2 case studies. SETTING: The study occurred at the GIFT Institute of Integrative Medicine (Pisa, Italy). PARTICIPANTS: Participants were 2 patients at the institute who had FM. INTERVENTION: At baseline (T0), participants were prescribed 8 mo of pharmacological treatment. At 2 mo after baseline (T1), they participated in an 8-h, mind-body, psychoeducational course (PEC) for self-management of chronic pain. Each participant was contacted by phone every week for 2 mo after the PEC (ie, until 4 mo from baseline (T2). For the next 2 mo, participants had no contact with a health care practitioner, to sustain a deeper PEC program. Participants then took a 2-mo Hatha yoga program from months 6 (T3) to 8 (T4). OUTCOME MEASURES: Sensorial, affective, and evaluative dimensions of pain were investigated using the Italian Pain Questionnaire, and depression and anxiety were investigated using the Hospital Anxiety Depression at T0, T1, T2, T3, and T4. The IPQ was administered weekly, before and after each yoga session. RESULTS: Hatha yoga proved to be an effective means of relieving pain in FM. In particular, a measurable improvement in scores occurred for the affective dimension of pain after only 4 yoga sessions; this effect remained stable throughout the remainder of the program. CONCLUSIONS: Monitoring the affective dimension of pain should be included in an integrated approach to pain, and Hatha yoga may be beneficial in the pain management of FM participants.
Effects of Integrated Yoga Intervention on Psychopathologies and Sleep Quality Among Professional Caregivers of Older Adults With Alzheimer's Disease: A Controlled Pilot Study.
Chhugani KJ, Metri K, Babu N … +1 more , Nagendra HR
Adv Mind Body Med · 2018 Summer · PMID 31370033
CONTEXT: Providing care to patients suffering from chronic neurological problems is a stressful job. While providing care to the patients, professional caregivers experience various kinds of physical and mental challenge...
CONTEXT: Providing care to patients suffering from chronic neurological problems is a stressful job. While providing care to the patients, professional caregivers experience various kinds of physical and mental challenges that affect their mental health and sleep. Yoga is a form of mind-body medicine shown to be an effective intervention in improving physical and mental health. OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of an integrated yoga (IY) intervention on anxiety, depression, stress, and sleep quality among professional caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer's disease. SETTING: This study was conducted in an Alzheimer care institution located in Bangalore City in southern India. PARTICIPANTS: Participants were professional female caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer's disease. Participant age range was between 20 and 50 y (mean, 34 ± 8.4 y). A total of 30 participants were enrolled in the study. Seventeen participants followed IY intervention and 13 were considered in a wait-list group. INTERVENTION: Participants in the IY group received a structured IY intervention comprising yoga asanas, pranayama, meditation, and relaxation techniques, 1 h/d, 6 d/wk, for 1 mo. Participants in the wait-list control group followed their daily activities. OUTCOME MEASURES: Blood pressure, heart rate, anxiety, depression, stress, and sleep quality were assessed at baseline after 1 mo for both the groups. Data were analyzed with an appropriate statistical test using SPSS Version 16 software (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). RESULTS: The IY group showed significant improvement in heart rate, blood pressure, stress, depression, anxiety, and sleep quality after 1 mo compared with baseline. In contrast to the IY group, the wait-listed control group showed significant increase in anxiety, depression, and stress and significant decrease in sleep quality after 1 mo compared with baseline. CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed the potential use of IY intervention in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. The study also suggests that IY improves sleep quality among professional caregivers. However, further studies using a randomized controlled trial method with a larger sample size and for a longer duration should be conducted to confirm the present findings.
Long-term Tai Chi Training Is Associated With Better Dual-task Postural Control and Cognition in Aging Adults.
Jor'dan AJ, Manor B, Hausdorff JM … +4 more , Lipsitz LA, Habtemariam D, Novak V, Wayne PM
Adv Mind Body Med · 2018 Summer · PMID 31370032
OBJECTIVE: Many activities within our daily lives require us to stand upright while concurrently performing a cognitive task (ie, dual tasking). The "costs" of dual tasking can present as a detriment to either task, or e...
OBJECTIVE: Many activities within our daily lives require us to stand upright while concurrently performing a cognitive task (ie, dual tasking). The "costs" of dual tasking can present as a detriment to either task, or even both. Evidence supports that tai chi (TC), a mind-body exercise, improves both postural control and cognition. The purpose of this study was to (1) determine whether long-term TC training reduces dual-task costs to standing postural control, and (2) determine whether it characterizes the relationship between these costs and cognition in aging adults with and without long-term TC training. METHODS: Twenty-six TC experts (age 63 ± 8 y, TC experience 24 ± 11 y) and 60 controls (TC naïve: age 64 ± 8 y) were studied. Center-of-pressure sway speed and elliptical area were recorded during quiet and dual-task standing. In addition, postural sway speed and range were analyzed in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral direction. Dual-task cost was calculated as the percent change in center-of-pressure outcomes from quiet to dual-task conditions. Cognition was assessed with the digit span (verbal memory), trail making test (working memory and task switching ability), category naming (semantic verbal fluency), and F-A-S test (phonemic verbal fluency). RESULTS: TC experts had significantly lower dual-task costs to postural control in elliptical area (16.1 vs 110.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI], -94.27 to -0.07) compared with TC-naïves. TC experts also performed better on the digit span (23.5 vs 19.2; 95% CI, 0.68 to 3.59), trail making test A (28.5 vs 32.6 s; 95% CI, -3.83 to -0.21), and category naming (46.2 vs 41.3, 95%, CI 0.80 to 4.09), compared with TC naïves. There was not a clear significant association between better cognitive functioning and lower dual-task costs for either groups. These group differences and associations were independent of age, body mass index, education, and physical activity level. CONCLUSIONS: These observations suggest cognitive-motor benefits from TC and the need for future controlled trials.
Antioxidants and Autism: Teachers' Perceptions of Behavioral Changes.
Sadek A, Berk LS, Mainess K … +1 more , Daher NS
Adv Mind Body Med · 2018 Summer · PMID 29870399
BACKGROUND: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) demonstrate a physiological imbalance between free radicals, resultant from oxidative stress, and antioxidants. Oxidative stress is linked to the pathogenesis of t...
BACKGROUND: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) demonstrate a physiological imbalance between free radicals, resultant from oxidative stress, and antioxidants. Oxidative stress is linked to the pathogenesis of this neurocognitive disorder. The aim of this pilot feasibility study was to examine the effect of consumption of high concentration antioxidant cacao on behavior of children with ASD. METHODS: This was a 4-week pre-test post-test experimental pilot study of high antioxidant cacao and children with ASD. Participants consumed 8 squares (or 16 grams) per day of the dark chocolate which had a concentration of 70% cacao and 30% organic cane sugar (total antioxidant concentration was 8,320). The two main behavioral measures were the Aberrant Behavior Checklist- 2nd Edition and the Autism Spectrum Rating Scale which were completed by the child's teacher at baseline and end of week four. RESULTS: Sixteen participants were recruited for this study. Follow up data was available on 12 participants (9 males, 3 females, mean age of 10.9 ±3.9 years). Significant improvements on the Autism Spectrum Rating Scale were noted in Social/Communication (P = .03, η2=0.79), Unusual Behaviors (P = .02, η2=0.70), and Self-Regulation (P = .04, η2=0.59). No significant changes were noted on any of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-2 subscales (P >.05). CONCLUSION: Results from this study support the potential therapeutic benefit of antioxidants in improving social communication, unusual behaviors, and self-regulation behaviors of children with ASD. Further robust randomized controlled trials are now necessary to elaborate the validity of these findings.
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