A note on behavioural treatment in the rehabilitation of myocardial infarction patients

Br J Soc Clin Psychol. 1980 Jun;19(2):157-61. doi: 10.1111/j.2044-8260.1980.tb00942.x.

Abstract

Ten patients, diagnosed as suffering acute myocardial infarction were allocated to an Experimental (behavioural counselling with relaxation training) group, or a Control (waiting list) group. Measures of electromyogram activity, covert and self-rated anxiety, serum enzymes, length of illness and outcome were made. Experimental subjects had 12 weekly sessions of counselling on a variety of topics relating to psychological adaptation to the illness, plus relaxation training. The results show a significant reduction in muscle tension in experimental subjects after training. Significant changes were also found respecting covert anxiety. Self-rated anxiety and SGOT levels were related. More experimental than control subjects returned to work.

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety / psychology
  • Anxiety / rehabilitation
  • Aspartate Aminotransferases / blood
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle Relaxation
  • Myocardial Infarction / psychology
  • Myocardial Infarction / rehabilitation*

Substances

  • Aspartate Aminotransferases