Authors: Judy Lovas
Year: 2017
Event: 2017 TheMHS Conference
Subject: Research & Evaluation Informing Practice,Wellbeing,Clinical Issues
Type of resource: Conference Presentations and Papers
Abstract: This unique workshop introduces both the evidence and the practice of relaxation therapies to enhance mental health. It highlights how relaxation can decrease anxiety, trauma, sleep disorders and depression.
Today, there is up-to-date, peer reviewed research that demonstrates benefits of relaxation therapies for psychological health. Relaxation techniques are evidence-based, non-invasive, non-pharmacological and cost-effective. They are efficacious, innovative and simple to implement into any mental healthcare system. Relaxation can be, and is increasingly, embraced by health professionals, carers, patients and people with lived experiences. Importantly, relaxation techniques also offer individuals greater control in their own health care.
This workshop demonstrates two simple techniques: deep diaphragmatic breathing and guided imagery. Each participant will learn effective relaxation skills to use regularly in daily life. Relaxation therapies contribute to effective clinical care of psychological health, promote best practice and expand the treatment options embraced by mental health services throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Evidence-based and easy to learn, relaxation therapies reduce the negative impact of stress-related conditions. This practical, dynamic and unique workshop provides simple skills to include in the prevention, early intervention and recovery of mental health conditions.
Learning Objectives
Learning Objective 1: Participants will gain an overview of the latest randomised controlled trials that support regular use of deep diaphragmatic breathing and guided imagery.
Learning Objective 2: The audience will also learn, practice and take away two relaxation techniques to include in daily life and enhance their mental health.
References
Reig-Ferrer A. et al. (2014). A relaxation technique enhances psychological well-being and immune parameters in elderly people from a nursing home: A randomised controlled study. Complementary and Alternative Medicine 14, 311-325.
Trakhtenberg E. (2008). The effects of guided imagery on the immune system: a critical review. International Journal of Neuroscience; 118, 839-855.
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