A systematic review of the benefits of mindfulness-based interventions following transient ischemic attack and stroke

M. Lawrence, J. Booth, S. Mercer, E. Crawford

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

lt;pgt;Background Recent epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between perceived psychological stress and ischemic stroke. A feature of stroke is recurrence; 30?40% within five-years following first transient ischemic attack/stroke. Equipping patients with skills and coping strategies to help reduce or manage perceived psychological stress may represent an important secondary prevention intervention. Mindfulness-based interventions are structured, group-based self-management programmes with potential to help people with long-term conditions cope better with physical, psychological, or emotional distress. Review evidence suggests significant benefits across a range of physical and mental health problems. However, we could find no evidence synthesis relating specifically to the benefits of mindfulness-based interventions following transient ischemic attack/stroke.lt;/pgt; lt;pgt;Aim The review aims to evaluate the benefits of mindfulness-based interventions following transient ischemic attack/stroke.lt;/pgt; lt;pgt;Methods Six major databases were searched using subject headings and key words. Papers were screened using review-specific criteria. Critical appraisal and data extraction were conducted independently by two reviewers. Statistical meta-analysis was not possible; therefore findings are presented in narrative form.lt;/pgt; lt;pgt;Results Four studies involving 160 participants were reviewed. Three papers reported mindfulness-based interventions delivered to groups; one paper reported a mindfulness-based intervention which was delivered one to one. The results demonstrate a positive trend in favor of the benefits of mindfulness-based interventions across a range of psychological, physiological, and psychosocial outcomes including anxiety, depression, mental fatigue, blood pressure, perceived health, and quality of life. No evidence of harm was found.lt;/pgt; lt;pgt;Conclusion Following transient ischemic attack/stroke, people may derive a range of benefits from mindfulness-based interventions; however, further methodologically robust trials are required.lt;/pgt;
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)465-474
Number of pages10
JournalInternational Journal of Stroke
Volume8
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 Jul 2013

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