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Aim: As increasing numbers of unaccompanied refugee minors (URMs) are arriving in Europe, there is a need to investigate which factors promote psychological resilience and improve their mental health. This review aims to identify preventive post settlement influences, including living arrangements, access to mental health services, and effective treatments that may improve mental health outcomes. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted of published papers in any language for children (<18 years) entering a host country, unaccompanied and seeking asylum. Specific studies were eligible if they examined any treatment or nontreatment influences on mental health or psychological resilience for the URM. Thirteen published quantitative studies were identified. Results: URMs in more supportive living arrangements including foster care had lower risk of PTSD and lower depressive symptoms compared with those in semi‐independent care arrangements. URMs living in reception settings that restricted freedom had more anxiety symptoms. Regarding help seeking, one study found only 30% of URMs had foster parents or guardians who could detect a mental health need. Two papers found the URMs had low levels of contact with mental health services despite the high prevalence of psychiatric symptoms. URMs were less likely than accompanied children to receive trauma‐focused interventions, cognitive therapy, or even practical assistance with basic social needs. With regard to treatment evaluation, only case series were identified. Three studies found cognitive behavioural therapy improved PTSD symptoms and mental health outcomes. A less structured approach (mental health counselling alone) did not improve functional health outcomes. Conclusion: Higher support living arrangements with low restrictions are associated with lower psychological distress. Most URMs are not receiving psychological interventions, and there is a dearth of studies evaluating treatment effectiveness for this group. There is an urgent need for more research to investigate pathways to mental health services and treatment efficacy in this vulnerable group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The term catastrophizing was coined by Ellis (1962) and commented on by Beck (1979). Since that time, much research has been done on the topic and a recent review article postulated that catastrophizing served as a transdiagnostic mechanism across the psychiatric disorders (Gellatly and Beck, 2016). In rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), there is a greater emphasis placed on the underlying irrational beliefs than the surface-level automatic thoughts; therefore, REBT therapists tend to focus on Awfulizing as opposed to catastrophizing. While these terms sound similar, it is unclear what theoretical overlap and distinction exists between the concepts. The paper aims to discuss these issues.Design/methodology/approach This paper is a review and synthesis of the extant literature, drawing from both theorists and empirical studies, to map out the similar and unique aspects of each cognition.Findings Awfulizing and catastrophizing are distinct concepts with differing effects on cognitive, affective and behavioral responses; these findings extend beyond theoretical models and are supported by empirical literature.Originality/value This review has direct implications for practitioners of the cognitive and behavioral therapies, including REBT, and those seeking an integration of the cognitive therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to critique the current manner in which cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is delivered, with a focus on the impact of evidence-based practice.Design/methodology/approach This paper is based upon the experiences, ideas and clinical practice of the authors.Findings The reductionist approach based on psychiatric diagnosis is put forward as the mechanism by which CBT has gradually lost its status as a form of psychotherapy.Originality/value An alternative framework based on revitalising CBT as a client centred, problem-based and formulation driven form of therapy is put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine sex differences in the effectiveness of a Stories intervention for teaching affect recognition in people with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Setting: Post-acute rehabilitation facilities. Participants: 203 participants (53 women and 150 men) with moderate to severe TBI were screened. 71 were eligible and randomized to one of three treatment conditions: two affect recognition conditions and an active control (cognition). This paper examines sex differences between the Stories intervention (n = 23, 5 women and 18 men) and the cognitive treatment control (n = 24, 8 women and 16 men). Design: Randomized controlled trial with immediate, 3- and 6-month follow-up post-tests. Interventions were 9 hours of computer-based training with a therapist. Measures: Facial Affect Recognition (DANVA2-AF); Emotional Inference from Stories Test (EIST). Results: A significant treatment effect was observed for the Stories intervention for women, who demonstrated and maintained improved facial affect recognition. In contrast, males in our sample did not benefit from the Stories intervention. Conclusion: This positive finding for the Stories intervention for females contrasts with our conclusions in a previous paper, where an analysis collapsed across sex did not reveal an overall effectiveness of the Stories intervention. This intervention warrants further research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although mental health workers in India across all major professional groups have identified an unmet need for training in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), the uncritical export of models of mental health, therapy provision and training to low- and middle-income countries is a problematic process. This paper describes the context for the first stand-alone CBT training programme in India, based in Chennai. This paper includes an evaluation of the first phase of the training and information from trainees regarding the quality and applicability of the training to their working context. The paper provides an overview of some of the critiques that are pertinent to this process and considers the way that the Kolb learning cycle can be used as a framework within training to go some way to addressing these difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clear reporting of the counseling approach (and theoretical underpinning) applied by sport psychologists is often missing, with a tendency to focus on intervention content rather than therapeutic processes and relationship building. Well-defined psychotherapies such as motivational interviewing (MI) can help fill this void and provide an underpinning counseling approach (in an athlete-centered manner) as a framework for delivering interventions such as psychological-skills training (PST). This article describes the role of MI as a framework on which PST sport psychology interventions can be mapped and delivered. The paper presents an athlete case study to explain the role of MI at each phase of the interaction. Robust, well-defined applications of MI in sport require further research, although evidence from other psychological domains suggests that it can be successfully blended into sporting contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to outline the human capacity for harmfulness and details the role of trauma and adversity in the consolidation of harmful capacities. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is a theoretical overview and offers a rationale for developing more trauma sensitive practices. Findings: The paper proposes compassion focussed therapy (CFT) as an overarching approach to organising interventions. Practical implications: The paper invites practitioners to develop a holistic approach to forensic interventions incorporating a collaborative formulation and personal objectives for service users. Originality/value: CFT and trauma informed approaches to working with risk are relatively new in the forensic field. This paper provides a rationale for the further development of such approaches within forensic settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper brings together Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory and other perspectives on wellbeing to test predictions about dimensions of affect which are linked to approach motivation or avoidance motivation. Valence and activation are jointly conceptualised as either approach-affect or avoidance-affect through the diagonal axes of an affective circumplex. Across four studies in three different countries, predictions about Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory's Behavioural Activation System, Behavioural Inhibition System and Fight-Flight-Freeze System are found to be supported. Correlations with external variables are shown to depend on a wellbeing measure's emphasis on approach or avoidance, such that affect and external features which both emphasise motivation to approach or to avoid yield substantially larger intercorrelations than do non-concordant pairs. In addition, joining valence with activation is shown to yield correlational benefits as predicted. Implications of our perspective and operationalisation are reviewed, and specific research recommendations are made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main thesis in Ratnayake's paper is that CBT does not produce more accurate self-evaluations or more reliable self-predictions but encourages a positive way of interpreting reality that, before engaging in therapy, people might not have taken advantage of. Suppose that Susie evaluates accurately her performance in the test and also accurately predicts that she will fail the entire course: she may be showing validity at the expense of utility. Ratnayake's interesting paper challenges two claims, that cognitive distortions in depression involve epistemic issues; and that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can rectify those epistemic issues. [Extracted from the article]

Hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis seems to play an important role in the pathogenesis of depression in hypothyroid patients. Studies have shown that hypothyroidism can induce mood changes and major depressive disorders, but what governs the reason for this linkage and the most suitable therapy to manage this condition is not very clear. We aim to investigate the various existing therapies administered for depression due to hypothyroidism and the potential scope of yoga therapy to treat these conditions effectively. A systematic literature search of five databases, namely, EBSCO, SCOPUS, PROQUEST, PubMed, and Elsevier using the keywords in the area of "hypothyroidism, depression, and therapies" was carried out till the period 2023 following the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses" guidelines to select the relevant English-language peer-reviewed articles for the study. The objective of this study was to present the work done so far in the field of treating depression in hypothyroidism through therapy techniques. The paper reviews 18 specific empirical studies on various available therapies administered for depression in hypothyroidism and based on the extant literature covers four broad themes: (1) hormone therapy, (2) antidepressant pharmacotherapy, (3) cognitive psychotherapy, and (4) yoga therapy. This review provides a clear need for more yoga therapy studies, as only two yoga studies were found for treating depression in hypothyroidism that have shown significant outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) appears to achieve its effects at least in part by fostering the development of CBT skills. In an effort to leverage CBT skill development, our group developed and tested a skill‐enhanced version of CBT (CBT‐SE) in a recent trial. In this paper, we describe our work with a client who participated in a 12‐week course of CBT‐SE as part of that trial. Although homework is a critical aspect of CBT, the greater emphasis on skill development in CBT‐SE means that homework is even more central. This client's course of treatment illustrates the potential benefits of a strong focus on skill development and the use of specific homework assignments to foster mastery and ongoing use of CBT skills. The client developed CBT skills at a rapid pace early in treatment and exhibited enduring symptom reductions. The experience of this client reinforces the value of a focus on CBT skills and highlights strategies for fostering skill development. Given the evidence in support of the therapeutic value of CBT skills and the well‐established benefits of homework assignment, we encourage use of skill enhancing procedures, including in‐session procedures and assignments that help clients develop and maintain ongoing skill use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Insomnia is the most reported sleep disorder in industrialized countries, affecting, in the chronic form, around 10% of the European population. In Italy, such a percentage seems to be even higher. Although insomnia can be an independent disorder, it is frequently described as comorbid condition and may precipitate, exacerbate, or prolong a broad range of physical and mental disorders. Evaluating and targeting insomnia in the Italian clinical practice should be a priority. Methods: The present expert opinions and recommendations represent an update from 2020 and insights from Insomnia Expert Consensus Group, based on systematic reviews according to PRISMA on available options in Italy from January 2020 to March 2023. Results: We evaluated 28 papers among international guidelines, expert opinions, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis produced during the last 26 months. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that symptoms of insomnia must be assessed in the Italian clinical practice by evaluating nocturnal and daytime symptoms, comorbid conditions, and lifestyle. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia should be the first option according to availability. The choice of the drug should be based on different factors including type of insomnia, age, comorbidities, and potential side effects. If the choice would be a Z-drug or a short-acting benzodiazepine (in subjects < 65 years old), the use should be in the short term (≤ 4 weeks). Indeed, eszopiclone, as a new option in Italy, may present a different profile and may be used for up to 6 months, also in the elderly. If the choice is melatonin, it should be used melatonin 2 mg prolonged release in adults ≥ 55 years for up to 13 weeks. A new dual orexin antagonist, daridorexant, is available in Italy; it has been shown to be effective in adults and elderly and it can be used for at least 3 months and up to 1 year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the protocol to test the feasibility of the Safe management of people with Type 1 diabetes and EAting Disorders studY (STEADY) intervention. STEADY is a novel complex intervention for people with type 1 diabetes and disordered eating (T1DE) of mild to moderate severity. The STEADY intervention integrates cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with diabetes education, and was developed using Experience‐Based Co‐Design. Methods: The feasibility of STEADY will be tested using a randomised controlled feasibility trial. Forty adults with T1DE will be recruited and randomised into the STEADY intervention or treatment as usual control group. We will collect demographic, biomedical and psychometric data, routine glucose metrics and conduct the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐5. Participants randomised to the STEADY intervention will receive 12 STEADY therapy sessions with a diabetes specialist nurse trained in CBT, delivered via videoconference and an optional smartphone app. The main outcome at 6 months will be the feasibility of STEADY (recruitment, dropout rates, feasibility of delivery). The secondary outcomes are biomedical (HbA1c and glucose time in range) and psychological (person‐reported outcome measures in disordered eating, diabetes distress, depression and anxiety). A process evaluation will evaluate the fidelity, feasibility, acceptability and appropriateness of STEADY, and participant experiences. Ethics and dissemination: The protocol was approved by the East of England—Essex Research Ethics Committee (21/EE/0235). Study findings will be shared with study participants and disseminated through peer‐reviewed publications and conference presentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital intervention has been shown to be helpful in improving perinatal mental health. However, the design characteristics of such interventions have not been systematically reviewed. Considering that a lack of support—especially from a partner—is one of the major contributing factors to perinatal depression and anxiety, it is crucial to determine whether digital interventions have included partner participation. In this review, we systematically examined the design characteristics of digital interventions related to perinatal depression and anxiety and aimed to determine whether partner participation was incorporated as part of the interventions. Based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, five databases (PubMed, EBSCO, Cochrane, ProQuest, and Scopus) were searched. Narrative results of design characteristics were developed to provide a framework for the design and evaluation of the studies. A total of 12 intervention studies from China, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Norway, and the United Kingdom were included. Across all studies, internet cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness therapy were overwhelmingly utilized as the major intervention approaches. While all studies reported reduced depressive symptoms after the intervention, only four studies reported subsequent decreased levels of both depressive and anxiety symptoms. Only one study included partner support in the intervention. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness therapy, two of the most common intervention approaches, were found to be effective in alleviating perinatal depression and anxiety. Partner participation should be prioritized in designing digital interventions to ensure comprehensive and easily accessible social support for persons in need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Almost no research has been published reporting on evaluations of the effectiveness of psychological interventions for people with severe to profound intellectual disabilities and depression. This paper describes the development and initial feasibility testing of an adapted Behavioural Activation therapy (BeatIt2) for this population. Method: Phase 1 of the study examined participant recruitment and willingness to be randomised in the context of a planned Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT). Phase 2 examined the feasibility of delivering the intervention. Results: Twenty adults with a severe or profound intellectual disability and clinically significant depression were recruited to Phase 1 of the study. In Phase 2, there was 100% participant retention for those recruited to the study at 6‐month follow‐up. The BeatIt2 therapy was reported to be acceptable for participants. Conclusion: COVID disruption meant that it was not possible to complete the planned feasibility RCT. The positive findings suggest that additional evaluation of BeatIt2 is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic events, particularly childhood interpersonal victimisation, have been found to play a causal role in the occurrence of psychosis and shape the phenomenology of psychotic experiences. Higher rates of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma‐related mental health problems are also found in people with psychosis diagnoses compared to the general population. It is, therefore, imperative that therapists are willing and able to address trauma and its consequences when supporting recovery from distressing psychosis. Method: This paper will support this need by providing a state‐of‐the‐art overview of the safety, acceptability and effects of trauma therapies for psychosis. Results: We will first introduce how seminal cognitive‐behavioural models of psychosis shed light on the mechanisms by which trauma may give rise to psychotic experiences, including a putative role for trauma‐related emotions, beliefs and episodic memories. The initial application of prolonged exposure and eye movement and desensitation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) for treating PTSD in psychosis will be described, followed by consideration of integrative approaches. These integrative approaches aim to address the impact of trauma on both post‐traumatic stress symptoms and trauma‐related psychosis. Integrative approaches include EMDR for psychosis (EMDRp) and trauma‐focused Cognitive‐Behavioural Therapy for psychosis (tf‐CBTp). Finally, emerging dialogic approaches for targeting trauma‐related voice‐hearing will be considered, demonstrating the potential value of adopting co‐produced (Talking with Voices) and digitally augmented (AVATAR) therapies. Conclusion: We will conclude by reflecting on current issues in the area, and implications for research and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose & Method: Mindfulness for psychosis research has grown exponentially over the last 15 years. In this paper, a brief overview of mindfulness for psychosis is provided followed by a summary of the findings from a systematic search of meta‐analyses dated up to February 2023. Current issues in the field are discussed and a future research agenda is presented. Results: Ten meta‐analyses published between 2013 and 2023 were identified. Reported effect sizes on reductions in psychotic symptoms ranged from small‐large across reviews. Four key issues in the field are identified and discussed – (1) is mindfulness for psychosis safe? (2) is home practice essential and related to clinical outcomes? (3) what is the impact of mindfulness practice versus metacognitive insights derived from practice, on clinical outcomes? (4) do the benefits translate into routine clinical practice? Conclusions: Mindfulness is a promising intervention that is emerging as being both safe and effective for people with psychosis. Future research focused on evaluating mechanisms of change and implementation in routine clinical practice should be prioritised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review aimed to review the evidence for psychological support for children with food allergies and their families, identify effective psychological interventions, and highlight the support needs for this group. A systematic search was undertaken across six databases (up to October 2023). Articles were checked by three reviewers for inclusion. Study data were extracted, and quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A narrative synthesis was undertaken. A total of 11 papers were included (n = 838 participants). Intervention types were based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT; n = 7); psycho‐education (n = 1); peer mentoring (n = 1); self‐regulation theory (n = 1); and coping (n = 1). Two interventions were for children only, three were for children and parents and six for parents only. Cognitive behavioral therapy‐based interventions with highly anxious parents or children or those facilitated by a psychologist showed significant improvements with moderate‐to‐large effect sizes. The one self‐help CBT‐based online program showed no effects. Other intervention types reported mainly trends in improvement due to small sample sizes. Most interventions were aimed at supporting children or parents in day‐to‐day management of food allergy, measuring outcomes such as quality of life, self‐efficacy, anxiety, worry, and depression. One intervention was designed to assist with oral immunotherapy outcomes. The majority of the studies had small sample sizes and were feasibility or proof‐of‐concept studies. Available research evidence points to effectiveness of facilitated CBT‐based interventions for those that have high food allergy‐related anxiety, but as many studies have small sample sizes and few report effect sizes, no firm conclusions can yet be drawn. A stepped care approach is likely to be useful for this population. Research using large interventional designs, particularly for children and adolescents, are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia, impacting 6-10% of the global population, is a multifaceted challenge to health and productivity. Chronic insomnia, linked to various health issues, demands comprehensive management. Traditional pharmacotherapies, effective yet raising dependency concerns, contrast with the nonpharmacological alternative, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), addressing root causes. This paper explores diagnostic criteria, etiological factors, and patient education in insomnia management, incorporating keywords like behavioral therapy, chronic insomnia, and general sleep disturbances. Discussion emphasizes the evolving landscape, where behavioral interventions, notably CBT-I, demonstrate lasting efficacy, urging a shift towards personalized and comprehensive solutions. Societal consequences, including reduced productivity, underscore the imperative for effective, diversified approaches beyond traditional medications. The intricate challenges of insomnia necessitate a nuanced, individualized approach, with behavioral therapies as pivotal components, aligning with keywords such as non-pharmacological therapy and pharmacological. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. Around 2.5% of Poles will develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during their lifetime. Recent events, i.e. the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, are the factors that will increase the number of people dealing with PTSD. Owing to that, this paper aims to review and familiarise readers with the available scientific evidence on psychotherapies of PTSD provided in Poland. Method. A review of meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials and a review of the most recent treatment guidelines concerning PTSD. Results. The best available evidence points to high efficacy of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) with prolonged exposure and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). Humanistic therapy also proves effective to a certain degree, but not as effective as therapies that use exposure to stimuli and memories associated with trauma. There is no evidence of the efficacy of psychodynamic therapy and methods based on polyvagal theory. Organisations preparing guidelines recommend primarily CBT and EMDR. Conclusions. Efficacious treatment of PTSD should include a protocol with a component of exposure to trauma-related memories and stimuli. It is recommended to use such therapies in the psychotherapeutic treatment of PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on advancements in psychiatric treatments for various age groups, highlighting the importance of addressing vulnerabilities in children, adults, and the elderly. Topics discussed include neural circuit alterations in pediatric anxiety disorders and the impact of cognitive behavioral therapy, intergenerational effects of childhood interventions on offspring mental health, and the use of multimodal neuroimaging to predict antidepressant responses in adults.

Aims: To examine the effects of virtual reality‐based cognitive interventions on cognitive function and activities of daily living among stroke patients, and to identify the optimal design for such intervention. Design: Systematic review and meta‐analysis. Data Sources: Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane, CINANL, JBI‐EBP and Web of Science from inception to October 2023. Methods: Methodological quality was assessed by Risk of Bias Tool. Meta‐analyses were assessed by Review Manager 5.4. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the influence of study design. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was adopted to assess the certainty of evidence. Results: Twenty‐five randomized controlled trials (1178 participants) were included. Virtual reality‐based cognitive interventions demonstrated moderate‐to‐large effects in improving global cognitive function (SMD = 0.43; 95% CI [0.01, 0.85]), executive function (SMD = 0.84; 95% CI [0.25, 1.43]) and memory (SMD = 0.65; 95% CI [0.15, 1.16]) compared to control treatments. No significant effects were found on language, visuospatial ability and activities of daily living. Subgroup analyses indicated one‐on‐one coaching, individualized design and dynamic difficulty adjustment, and interventions lasting ≥ 6 weeks had particularly enhanced effects, especially for executive function. Conclusions: Virtual reality‐based cognitive interventions improve global cognitive function, executive function and memory among stroke patients. Implications for the Patient Care: This review underscores the broad cognitive advantages offered by virtual technology, suggesting its potential integration into standard stroke rehabilitation protocols for enhanced cognitive recovery. Impact: The study identifies key factors in virtual technology interventions that effectively improve cognitive function among stroke patients, offering healthcare providers a framework for leveraging such technology to optimize cognitive outcomes in stroke rehabilitation. Reporting Method: PRISMA 2020 statement. PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42022342668. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper summarizes the results of the Improving Mood with Psychoanalytic and Cognitive Therapies (IMPACT) study and its implications for psychological treatment of adolescents with moderate to severe unipolar major depression. IMPACT was a pragmatic, superiority, randomized controlled trial conducted in the United Kingdom, which compared the clinical and cost-effectiveness of short-term psychoanalytic therapy (STPP), cognitive−behavioral therapy (CBT), and a brief psychosocial intervention (BPI) in reducing depression symptoms in 465 adolescents with unipolar major depression, aged 11 to 17 years. Although this was a clinically heterogeneous group of adolescents, some symptoms (eg, sleep and concentration difficulties, irritability/anger) were common and disabling. The trial reported no significant difference among the 3 treatments in reducing depression symptoms. One year after treatment, 84% of participants showed improvement in depressive symptoms (<50% of baseline symptoms) and improved psychosocial functioning, achieving this through different symptom reduction trajectories. Although participants attended fewer treatment sessions than planned, the 3 treatments were delivered with fidelity to their respective models. Ending treatment without therapist agreement occurred in 37% of cases. This was not associated with outcomes by treatment group. Adolescents emphasized the importance of the therapeutic relationship in all 3 treatments. Results suggest that although most adolescents respond to time-limited, structured psychological therapy, subgroups of depressed adolescents are likely to need additional treatment or support. These include adolescents who live in complex circumstances and/or who believe that their needs are not met in therapy, some who stop treatment early, and the 16% to 18% of adolescents who do not respond to treatment. Improving Mood and Preventing Relapse With Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy; https://www.isrctn.com ; ISRCTN83033550. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), including skin picking and hair pulling, are common behavioral problems with a lifetime prevalence of up to 5.5%. Extant research indicates that the best treatment approach for BFRBs is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but many of those who struggle with BFRBs are either reluctant to seek treatment or lack access to a therapist with sufficient expertise and experience. Methods: This paper presents preliminary data on the efficacy of two internet-based, therapist-assisted programs designed to treat hair pulling (TrichStop) and skin picking (SkinPick). The programs consist of evidence-based CBT components, including psychoeducation, Habit Reversal Training (HRT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We examined changes in self-reported symptom severity of participants in the two programs between February 2019 and December 2022 who had completed at least two assessments (840 participants in SkinPick and 583 participants in TrichStop). Results: Both programs resulted in a considerable reduction in symptom severity, with large effect sizes according to the conventional interpretation of Cohen's d. Improvement in symptoms was progressive over time, and overall improvement correlated with the number of sessions each participant has completed. Conclusions: This preliminary study, which is based on a large sample of participants, indicates that the two programs significantly reduce the severity of skin picking and hair pulling. The study has several limitations, including the lack of a control group, reliance on self-report based on partial scales, and paucity of demographic data, which should be addressed in future controlled studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people experience health disparities. • CBT interventions must be tailored to TGD people to address these disparities. • Case vignettes are used to demonstrate CBT principles tailored to TGD clients. Mental and physical health disparities for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) communities have been well-documented. While advancements have been made in the development of guidelines when providing mental health care to TGD clients, gaps remain, particularly related to concrete applications of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) approaches to address the unique mental health needs of TGD people. Such gaps leave many mental health professionals inadequately prepared to assess and treat clinical distress in TGD people, which in turn maintains health disparities. Utilizing case vignettes reflecting diverse TGD identities, this paper discusses minority stress and intersectional stigma frameworks and demonstrates their integration with CBT principles in the delivery of culturally tailored assessment, case conceptualization, and treatment of TGD clients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical management of patients with dental fear, anxiety, and phobia could be a major challenge to daily practice of dental professionals. The aim of the current review was to expand the modern consideration with respect to these issues, and therefore to discuss basic approaches and psychological techniques for management of oral health behaviors that should be employed in dentistry. This paper presents detailed description of the characteristics of dentist-patient therapeutic relationship as well as the most used techniques to cope with dental fear, anxiety, and phobia - relaxation techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), hypnosis and melotherapy. We can still argue that knowledge from behavioral sciences, along with excellent communication skills, empathic attitude, and individual patient-centered approach remain the main armamentarium of the dentist to deal with “difficult” patients, experiencing fear, anxiety, or phobia during dental appointment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic Pain is increasingly affecting young people, their quality of life and wellbeing including education, social life and mental health. Current Western approaches to psychological support for Chronic Pain often focus on 'pain management' and learning skills and strategies from professionals, making use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and psychoeducation approaches in individual and group interventions. As a Paediatric Psychology service, we have trialled groups running over multiple weeks informed by these approaches and experienced low attendance rates. Method: This paper describes a feasibility study of an alternative group intervention; the 'Living with Pain group', which combines the 'Journey of Life' (Denborough, 2014) with collective narrative and liberation psychology approaches. Results: Thirty three young people and eight parents / carers attended the intervention. Attendance rates, quantitative and qualitative feedback from one face-to-face group for young people and parents and two online groups for young people showed increased access and acceptability of the group. Conclusion: The findings from this study have shown that a 1-day collective narrative group intervention is feasible, suitable and acceptable and has increased access to our group intervention. Future directions include co-creation with young people and families, community engagement to increase accessibility of our groups and developing partnerships to respond to young people's hopes to raise awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Psychology / Revista de Psihologie is the property of Romanian Academy Publishing House / Editura Academiei Romane and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the efficacy of a multimodal, outpatient neuromuscular protocol in treating remaining sensitization and myofascial pain in endometriosis patients post-surgical excision. Patients and Methods: A retrospective longitudinal study was conducted for women aged 22 to 78 with a history of surgically excised endometriosis. 60 women with an average duration of pain of 8.63 ± 7.65 years underwent a treatment protocol consisting of ultrasound guided trigger point injections, peripheral nerve blocks, and pelvic floor physical therapy for 6 weeks. Concomitant cognitive behavioral therapy once weekly for a total of 12 weeks was also undertaken. Pain intensity and pelvic functionality were assessed at new patient consults and 3-month follow ups using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Functional Pelvic Pain Scale (FPPS). Results: At new patient consults, average VAS and FPPS were 7.45 ± 2.11 (CI 6.92– 7.98) and 14.35 ± 6.62 (CI 12.68 − 16.02), respectively. At 3-month follow ups, average VAS and FPPS decreased to 4.12 ± 2.44 (CI 3.50– 4.73; p < 0.001) and 10.3 ± 6.55 (CI 8.64– 11.96; p < 0.001), respectively. Among FPPS categories, sleeping, intercourse, and working showed the highest statistical significance. Conclusion: Data suggests the multimodal protocol was effective in treating the remaining underlying sensitization and myofascial pain seen in Endometriosis patients post-surgical excision, particularly in decreasing pain and improving function during work and intercourse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Výživa a Potraviny is the property of Spolecnost pro Vyzivu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Unmet pediatric mental health (MH) needs are growing as rates of pediatric depression and anxiety dramatically increase. Access to care is limited by multiple factors, including a shortage of clinicians trained in developmentally specific, evidence-based services. Novel approaches to MH care delivery, including technology-leveraged and readily accessible options, need to be evaluated in service of expanding evidence-based services to youths and their families. Preliminary evidence supports the use of Woebot, a relational agent that digitally delivers guided cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) through a mobile app, for adults with MH concerns. However, no studies have evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of such app-delivered relational agents specifically for adolescents with depression and/or anxiety within an outpatient MH clinic, nor compared them to other MH support services. Objective: This paper describes the protocol for a randomized controlled trial evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of an investigational device, Woebot for Adolescents (W-GenZD), within an outpatient MH clinic for youths presenting with depression and/or anxiety. The study's secondary aim will compare the clinical outcomes of self-reported depressive symptoms with W-GenZD and a telehealth-delivered CBT-based skills group (CBT-group). Tertiary aims will evaluate additional clinical outcomes and therapeutic alliance between adolescents in W-GenZD and the CBT-group. Methods: Participants include youths aged 13-17 years with depression and/or anxiety seeking care from an outpatient MH clinic at a children's hospital. Eligible youths will have no recent safety concerns or complex comorbid clinical diagnoses; have no concurrent individual therapy; and, if on medications, are on stable doses, based on clinical screening and as well as study-specific criteria. Results: Recruitment began in May 2022. As of December 8, 2022, we have randomized 133 participants. Conclusions: Establishing the feasibility and acceptability of W-GenZD within an outpatient MH clinical setting will add to the field's current understanding of the utility and implementation considerations of this MH care service modality. The study will also evaluate the noninferiority of W-GenZD against the CBT-group. Findings may also have implications for patients, families, and providers looking for additional MH support options for adolescents seeking help for their depression and/or anxiety. Such options expand the menu of supports for youths with lower-intensity needs as well as possibly reduce waitlists and optimize clinician deployment toward more severe cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Patients undergoing spinal fusion are prone to develop persisting spinal pain that may be related to pre-existent psychological factors. The aim of this review was to summarize the existing evidence about perioperative psychological interventions and to analyze their effect on postoperative pain, disability, and quality of life in adult patients undergoing complex surgery for spinal disorders. Studies investigating any kind of psychological intervention explicitly targeting patients undergoing a surgical fusion on the spine were included. Methods: We included articles that analyzed the effects of perioperative psychological interventions on either pain, disability, and/or quality of life in adult patients with a primary diagnosis of degenerative or neoplastic spinal disease, undergoing surgical fusion of the spine. We focused on interventions that had a clearly defined psychological component. Two independent reviewers used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) to perform a systematic review on different databases. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Downs and Black checklist. Given study differences in outcome measures and interventions administered, a meta-analysis was not performed. Instead, a qualitative synthesis of main results of included papers was obtained. Results: Thirteen studies, conducted between 2004 and 2017, were included. The majority were randomized-controlled trials (85%) and most patients underwent lumbar fusion (92%). Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was used in nine studies (69%). CBT in the perioperative period may lead to a postoperative reduction in pain and disability in the short-term follow-up compared to care as usual. There was less evidence for an additional effect of CBT at intermediate and long-term follow-up. Conclusion: The existing evidence suggests that a reduction in pain and disability in the short-term, starting from immediately after surgery to 3 months, is likely to be obtained when a CBT approach is used. However, there is inconclusive evidence regarding the long-term effect of a perioperative psychological intervention after spinal fusion surgery. Further research is necessary to better define the frequency, intensity, and timing of such an approach in relation to the surgical intervention, to be able to maximize its effect and be beneficial to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are often grouped together as "third-wave" cognitive behavioral therapies and have become increasingly popular among therapists treating a wide variety of presenting problems. This paper describes areas of conceptual overlap between DBT and ACT, notably both being principle-based approaches to addressing psychological suffering and use of contextual-behaviorism and acceptance. We discuss areas of divergence in terms of models for the development and maintenance of psychological suffering, specifically DBT and ACT being rooted in the biosocial model and relational frame theory, respectively. These models have downstream effects on theorized mechanisms of change (e.g., emotion regulation, psychological flexibility), treatment structure and delivery. Differences are often nuanced (e.g., degree of emphasis on mindfulness practice and values identification, directive versus non-directive approach), relying on ongoing case conceptualizations and consideration of contextual factors. We touch on the empirical evidence for DBT and ACT. Finally, we describe considerations for future research, including research aimed at mediation and moderation studies and comparing modifiable processes of change, to better determine whom would most benefit from these treatments to advance clinical care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazilian mental health care reform understands mental health as a complex social process. There is a large literature production within the country focused on deinstitutionalization policy, social determinants of mental health and human rights, however, with little recognition beyond Latin American borders. In addition, cultural dimensions of mental suffering have been neglected in Brazilian debates which limits an expanded understanding of health care and users' inclusion. This paper aims to discuss the role of cultural determinants in mental health care in Brazil. We followed a patient in the city of Rio de Janeiro who opted for therapy based on her religious beliefs—using ayahuasca in the context of the Afro Brazilian religion of Umbanda—over the treatment-as-usual in mental health. We draw on the notions of autoatención (self, domestic, and group-care in lay contexts) and medical landscapes to examine how therapeutic negotiations reflect embodied cultural traits and both social and political determinants shaping therapeutic spaces. We argue that recognizing sociocultural differences and therapeutic negotiations are key elements in making a more inclusive health practice. Moreover, this recognition enables identifying and reasoning the broader social processes framing health practices. This debate is relevant to the Brazilian mental health context and to other scenarios, especially those where local and global knowledge and practices in mental health are entangled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychosis (CBTp) is recommended by psychosis treatment guidelines in the U.S. and Canada, however accessibilty has not been systematically established and little is known about trainer or training characteristics in these countries. This paper represents the first effort to estimate the population of CBTp practitioners, characterize trainer qualifications and training practices, and calculate a CBTp accessibility estimate. We oversampled from a known cluster of the target population and supplemented with chain-referral sampling. Respondents completed an online survey pertaining to workforce training conducted since 2005. An accessibility estimate was calculated using published disease prevalence data and national workforce census data. Twenty-five CBTp trainers completed the questionnaire. Respondents were predominantly white female psychologists in hospital or academic settings. Their estimates of practitioners trained in the past 15 years yielded a point prevalence of 0.57% of the combined mental health workforce, corresponding to 11.5–22.8 CBTp-trained providers for every 10,000 people diagnosed with a psychotic disorder. Survey results showed several differences in training approaches, settings, and funders. This preliminary study suggests that CBTp remains inaccessible across these two countries. Future studies should refine the sampling methods to provide a more robust prevalence estimate within each country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of Internet‐based psychological interventions in the treatment of physical, socio‐affective and cognitive symptoms and quality of life (QoL) in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) to provide currently available evidence. Systematic searches for eligible studies were carried out in four databases (August 2021) using key words. Studies were screened, data extracted, quality appraised and analysed by three independent reviewers, using predefined criteria and following the PRISMA rules. Study quality was assessed using Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers from a Variety of Fields QUALSYST tool. Physical, socio‐affective and cognitive symptoms and QoL were the primary outcomes. Thirteen studies were included. Two principal approaches were reported: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness‐based interventions (MBI). Interventions varied from tailored versions to videoconference by a clinician, duration mean 8 weeks, delivered via individually and groups, all online. The review found that iCBT interventions were effective for improve depression, anxiety, fatigue and QoL, and slightly in cognitive functioning in pwMS, whereas MBI interventions reported benefits in depression, anxiety, stress and QoL, and less evidence in fatigue. Generally, study quality was acceptable in most studies; eleven of the studies scored a low risk of bias on all items in the Qualsyst Tool, whereas only two studies were considered unacceptable. Psychological online interventions may improve physical, socio‐affective and cognitive symptoms as well as QoL in pwMS, overcoming the face‐to‐face barriers (i.e. disability). Contact with the therapist and groups sessions have been identified as enablers of the online interventions. Nevertheless, the limited number of studies and the heterogeneity of health outcomes reported made difficult to afford robust conclusions on psychological intervention effects in pwMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cognitivismo Clinico is the property of Giovanni Fioriti Editore and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In recent years, computerized and non-computerized cognitive remediation programs have been designed for both individual and group settings. We believe, however, that a common misconception lies in considering the efficiency of a cognitive remediation therapy as resulting from the sole use of a computer. This omits that metacognitive skills need also to be trained throughout the remediation phase. RECOS is a theory-based therapeutic approach designed to promote the transfer of cognitive skills to functional improvements. It involves working with one person at a time using both paper/ pencil tasks and a set of interactive computer exercises. Paper/pencil exercises are used to promote problem-solving techniques and to help patients to find appropriate suitable strategies. During the following computerized 1-h session, therapists guide participants to the procedural dimension of the action, which refers to knowledge about doing things and relies on retrospective introspection. We assume that each patient has a rich and underestimated procedural knowledge he/she is not aware of. By providing complex and interactive environments, computerized exercises are recommended to bring this knowledge to light. When strategies used by the participant become conscious, conditional knowledge determines when and why to use them in real-life situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital therapy has gained popularity in the mental health field because of its convenience and accessibility. One major benefit of digital therapy is its ability to address therapist shortages. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Digital therapy is an important resource for individuals with PTSD who may not have access to traditional in-person therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are two evidence-based psychotherapies that have shown efficacy in treating PTSD. This paper examines the mechanisms and clinical symptoms of PTSD as well as the principles and applications of CBT and EMDR. Additionally, the potential of digital therapy, including internet-based CBT, video conferencing-based therapy, and exposure therapy using augmented and virtual reality, is explored. This paper also discusses the engineering techniques employed in digital psychotherapy, such as emotion detection models and text analysis, for assessing patients' emotional states. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges faced in digital therapy, including regulatory issues, hardware limitations, privacy and security concerns, and effectiveness considerations. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of digital psychotherapy for PTSD treatment and highlights the opportunities and challenges in this rapidly evolving field.Graphical Abstract: Digital therapy has gained popularity in the mental health field because of its convenience and accessibility. One major benefit of digital therapy is its ability to address therapist shortages. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Digital therapy is an important resource for individuals with PTSD who may not have access to traditional in-person therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are two evidence-based psychotherapies that have shown efficacy in treating PTSD. This paper examines the mechanisms and clinical symptoms of PTSD as well as the principles and applications of CBT and EMDR. Additionally, the potential of digital therapy, including internet-based CBT, video conferencing-based therapy, and exposure therapy using augmented and virtual reality, is explored. This paper also discusses the engineering techniques employed in digital psychotherapy, such as emotion detection models and text analysis, for assessing patients' emotional states. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges faced in digital therapy, including regulatory issues, hardware limitations, privacy and security concerns, and effectiveness considerations. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of digital psychotherapy for PTSD treatment and highlights the opportunities and challenges in this rapidly evolving field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that economic problems can cause psychological stress, and that psychological stress causes physiological changes often linked to disease. Here we report a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on physiological effects of psychological treatment for individuals with economic problems. Of 5071 papers in our initial PsycInfo search, we identified 16 papers on physiological effects for psychological treatment of the economically stressed. We found 11 controlled studies, among which we found a small to moderate significant effect size, Hedges’ g = 0.319, p < 0.001. The largest effect sizes were found for heart rate variability and measures of inflammation, and the smallest for measures involving cortisol. The studies were all on chronically poor populations, thus restricting generalization to other financially stressed populations such as students, athletes in training, and those stressed by relative deprivation compared with neighbors or other reference groups. None of the studies examined effects of these psychophysiological changes on disease susceptibility, and none included elements of financial planning. The nascent field of financial psychophysiology calls for more research in these areas. Even so, results suggest that financially stressed people can benefit physiologically from psychological stress management methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multimodal approaches combining cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) with non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) hold promise for improving the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. As this is a relatively new approach, it is a critical time to identify guiding principles and methodological considerations to enhance research rigor. In the current paper, we argue for a principled approach to CBT and NIBS pairings based on synergistic activation of neural circuits and identify key considerations about CBT that may influence pairing with NIBS. Careful consideration of brain-state interactions and CBT-related nuances will increase the potential for these combinations to be positively synergistic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integration of e-learning and computerized assessments into many levels of educational programs has been increasing as digital technology progresses. Due to a handful of prominent advantages of computer-based-testing (CBT), a rapid transition in test administration mode frompaper-based-testing (PBT) to CBT has emerged. Recently, many national and international testing agencies have been offering an electronic version of some low- and high-stake tests alongwiththeir paperversions.In this study, we aim to examine test administration mode effect from a standpoint of cognitive effort exertion. To this end, the results of this experimental study suggestthatthe cognitive effort exertion rates ofCBT andPBT examinees are different. More specifically, the study results suggest empirical evidence that examinees exert higher cognitive effortin a CBT in comparison toits PBTcounterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many researchers and clinicians take an 'either, or' position regarding factors responsible for change when conducting research. Qualitatively driven mixed methods privilege the qualitative approach and offer the opportunity to generate multi‐dimensional material, permitting a more holistic insight into experiences that can be understood from a combination of epistemological and ontological stances. A qualitatively driven mixed‐methods approach apply a 'both, and' position when exploring the elements that produce change or that are under investigation, which can be of particular value to counselling and psychotherapy research. There are various ways of engaging with qualitatively driven mixed methods. Some designs include both qualitative and quantitative components, where the former is the core element. The secondary component may also be qualitative, known as a multimethod design. Yet, other designs mix different qualitative approaches, through the application of different qualitative analyses to the same data (pluralistic qualitative research). This paper discusses the application and value of qualitatively driven mixed methods in counselling and psychotherapy research through the presentation of two research case studies; one which mixes both qualitative and quantitative components to investigate the experiences of pain alleviation following a CBT pain management programme; and one which applies a pluralistic approach to a counselling psychology doctorate exploring the experiences and meanings attached to self‐harming. Through illustration and discussion of the case studies' mixed‐methods approaches, this paper demonstrates that qualitatively driven mixed methods produce a more enhanced and holistic understanding into phenomena, and therefore a more balanced perspective to counselling and psychotherapy research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global community has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 global pandemic. LGBTQ+ (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, etc.) youth may face increased stressors amidst the pandemic given their significant mental and sexual health disparities, pervasive rejection — including quarantining in homes with heightened risk of abuse and victimization, and a lack of access to essential resources. Responsive supports are needed at this time for vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth, particularly tailored mental health supports. This critical reflexive paper will highlight, as qualitative social work researchers and practitioners, the swift response to the needs of vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth across Canada during this pandemic. We provide a transparent account of how we have utilized critical reflexivity, cultivated through qualitative research, to support LGBTQ+ youth. This article will elucidate the importance of critical reflexivity in effectively transitioning essential offline mental health services for LGBTQ+ youth to a technology-mediated mental health affirmative intervention. The aim of this paper is to provide qualitative researchers and practitioners practical direction through important insights gleaned by supporting marginalized LGBTQ+ youth during particularly trying times such as a global pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motor neuron disease (MND) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition with no known cure. MND can affect every aspect of a person's life and has been associated with a wide range of psychological difficulties, which can occur from pre-diagnosis through to the condition's later stages. However, very little research has been conducted on psychological interventions for people with MND (pwMND). This paper aimed to provide the first review specifically targeting psychological interventions in MND and offer potential directions for future research. Methods: A scoping review was carried out across five major databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Academic Search Ultimate, and Cochrane Library) until 1st of March 2020. Results: From an initial return of 1278 citations, 10 papers were included in the review. These included three randomized controlled trials (RCTs), two quasi-experiments, three uncontrolled pretest–post-test designs, one single case study, and one qualitative secondary analysis. The existing studies focused on a limited number of psychological outcomes and did not take into account site of MND onset or level of depression/anxiety before intervention. Implications for clinical practice are discussed and suggestions for future research are provided. Conclusions: The literature on psychological interventions is still extremely sparse. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based on the stress-coping model show promise in RCTs, but require further evaluation. The need for further development and evaluation of psychological interventions to improve the well-being of pwMND cannot be overstated, particularly as the struggle toward the discovery of an effective treatment for MND continues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Publication of papers related to psycho-social interventions in general and Behavior Therapy, in particular, in Indian Journal of Psychiatry has been limited. Though the first paper related to Behavior Therapy was published in 1952, a manual search of all available issues of the journal from 1949 showed that only 42 papers related to Behavior Therapy have been published till 2009. Among them 10 are case reports. Methodological limitations abound even in the papers on larger groups of patients. Studies using operant conditioning have been very few. Aversion therapy and progressive muscle relaxation have been very frequently used. The published articles are reviewed under the various diagnostic categories. Publications in the recent years have been mostly on Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Even after 57 years of co-existence, the relationship between Behavior Therapy and Indian Psychiatry remains a tenuous one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper aims to examine the efficacy of virtual reality (VR)‐enhanced cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in the treatment of binge‐purging type eating disorders compared to CBT. Method: Four electronic literature databases were searched to retrieve eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses was used to select eligible studies. Meta‐analyses of extracted data were then conducted by RevMan 5.3 software. Results: Six RCTs totalling 297 participants were included. Results showed significantly larger decreases in the frequency of binges in participants who underwent VR‐enhanced CBT compared to CBT. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the change in body mass index or frequency of purges. Additionally, there were significantly larger decreases in situation‐induced body dissatisfaction in participants who underwent VR‐enhanced CBT compared to CBT, but no significant difference in improvement of overall body satisfaction. Conclusion: VR‐enhanced CBT shows greater efficacy than CBT in reducing situation‐induced body dissatisfaction and frequency of binges. Our results highlight the potential of VR in helping patients develop coping strategies to food/situational triggers. Future RCTs may benefit from recruiting more participants to reduce the impact of drop‐outs on outcome data and blinding post‐intervention assessors to reduce risk of bias. HIGHLIGHTS: Patients who underwent VR‐enhanced CBT had a statistically significant larger decrease in situation‐induced body dissatisfaction compared to patients who underwent CBT, although there was no statistically significant difference in the increase in overall body satisfaction between the two groupsThere was a larger decrease in frequency of binges for patients who underwent VR‐enhanced CBT, but no statistically significant decrease in frequency of purges. There appear to be no statistically significant differences between the physical outcomes of patients undergoing VR‐enhanced CBT and CBTFurther research needs to be done on the evaluation of long‐term physical, behavioural and psychological outcome measures of VR‐enhanced CBT, but current results show promise in the potential of using VR to help patients develop coping strategies to food and situational triggers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Kinesiophobia, the fear of physical movement and activity related to injury vulnerability, has been linked to sub-optimal outcomes following total knee replacement (TKR). This systematic review has two aims: to define the relationship between kinesiophobia and functional outcomes, pain and range of motion following TKR, and to evaluate published treatments for kinesiophobia following TKR.Materials and Methods: A primary search of electronic databases, grey literature, and trial registries was performed in March 2020. English-language studies recruiting adult primary TKR patients, using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) were included. Outcome measures were grouped into short (< 6 months), medium (6-12 months), and long term (> 12 months). Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale for cohort or case control studies, and the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool for randomised controlled trials.Results: All thirteen included papers (82 identified) showed adequately low risk of methodological bias. TSK1 (activity avoidance) correlated with WOMAC functional score at 12 months in three studies (r = 0.20 p < 0.05, R = 0.317 p = 0.001, and correlation coefficient 0.197 p = 0.005). TSK score significantly correlated with mean active range of motion (ROM) at 2 weeks [65.98 (SD = 14.51) versus 47.35 (SD = 14.48) p = 0.000], 4 weeks [88.20 (SD = 15.11) versus 57.65 (SD = 14.80) p = 0.000], and 6 months [105.33 (SD = 12.34) versus 85.53 (SD = 14.77) p = 0.000] post-operation. Three post-operative interventions improved TSK score vs control following TKR: a home-based functional exercise programme [TSK - 14.30 (SD = 0.80) versus - 2.10 (SD = 0.80) p < 0.001], an outpatient cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) programme [TSK 27.76 (SD = 4.56) versus 36.54 (SD = 3.58)], and video-based psychological treatment [TSK 24 (SD = 5) versus 29 (SD = 5) p < 0.01].Conclusions: Kinesiophobia negatively affects functional outcomes up until 1 year post-operatively, while active ROM is reduced up to 6 months post-procedure. Post-operative functional and psychological interventions can improve kinesiophobia following TKR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]