Effectiveness of relaxation on anxiety and quality of life in adult patients with generalised anxiety disorder: a systematic review protocol

Abstract

Review question/objective The primary review objective is to identify and synthesise the best available evidence on effectiveness of relaxation techniques for the improvement of anxiety levels and quality of life in adult patients 18 years of age or older with generalised anxiety disorder, within the health sector and in the community (universities, nursing homes, the workplace, etc.). The secondary review objective is to synthesise the best available evidence on what type of relaxation technique produces the greatest improvement in anxiety levels and quality of life. Review Questions are: Are relaxation techniques effective at reducing anxiety and improving the quality of life in adult patients with Generalised Anxiety Disorder? What type of relaxation technique produces the greatest improvement in anxiety levels and quality of life? Inclusion criteria Types of participants The review will consider studies that include patients 18 years of age or older, of both genders, with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) diagnosed by the existent diagnostic criteria at the time when the study was conducted, based on the criteria of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) or the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of mental disorders (DSM). Types of intervention(s) The review will consider for inclusion studies that evaluate relaxation techniques based on autogenic training, on muscular relaxation or breathing techniques, done either in a group or individually. Studies to be included are those that compare the specified relaxation techniques with: - Another relaxation technique - Cognitive-behavioural therapies with or without relaxation - Pharmacological therapy - The absence of relaxation (either comparing with normal practice, being on a waiting list, or a placebo). Types of outcomes This review will consider studies that include the following outcome measures: Primary outcomes: Anxiety, measured with scales developed for that purpose. Quality of life, measured with scales developed for that purpose. Secondary outcomes: Use of health resources, i.e., visits to primary care health centres, visits to mental health centres, hospital admittances. Variation in the use of specific medications for GAD. Adverse effects of the intervention. Acceptability of the intervention.