2 Clinical Trials for Various Conditions
Family dementia caregivers provide a needed service to relatives with dementia and to society, but are often at risk for consequences to their own health such as depression, reduced immune system function, and burnout. Mentalizing Imagery Therapy (MIT, previously known as Central Meditation and Imagery Therapy) is a novel group mindfulness and guided imagery intervention designed to help caregivers reduce depressive symptoms and cope with the stress of caregiving. We will conduct a pilot feasibility of MIT versus home relaxation practice with 24 dementia caregivers. Half of the caregivers will be randomly assigned to receive a relaxation recording, while the other half will receive MIT. To measure the effects of MIT, we will obtain depression symptom ratings and questionnaires about psychological symptoms before and after MIT. We will also study the biological effects of MIT. We will do so by measuring brain activity, recording the pulse in order to determine variation in beat to beat intervals of the heart, and studying patterns of gene expression.
The goal of this clinical research study is to learn how many patients with advanced, recurrent, incurable cervical cancer will complete questionnaires about symptoms, any anxiety, depression, and/or pain, and the quality of their lives. Researchers also want to learn how many of these patients will complete a study treatment of propranolol hydrochloride and relaxation and guided imagery sessions. Researchers also want to learn if and how propranolol hydrochloride and relaxation and guided imagery may affect cancer symptoms and any anxiety, depression, and/or pain, and quality of life. Propranolol hydrochloride is designed to block certain chemicals that affect the heart. Relaxation and guided imagery sessions are a form of relaxing meditation that involves tensing and relaxing various parts of your body from your feet to your head. In the guided imagery portion, you listen to recordings that are designed to help with calmness, control, and decreasing stress.