Background
Stress and negative emotions contribute to atrial fibrillation (AF). Mind-body practices decrease stress and negative emotions and may reduce AF episodes and improve quality of life for patients with AF.
Objective
We examined the effects of a multimodal mind-body program, the SMART Program, on AF-related quality of life in patients with paroxysmal AF (PAF).
Methods
In this randomized, waitlist-controlled pilot trial, 18 subjects with PAF participated in an 8-week SMART Program delivered online immediately or 3 months later. Validated measures were completed at baseline and at 3 and 6 months (waitlist group only).
Results
Comparing pre- vs post-program scores among all 18 participants, subjects reported improvement in AF-related quality of life (Cohen’s d = 0.75, P = .005) and depression (d = 0.50, P = .05) but not anxiety (d = 0.35, P = .16). Subjects also reported improvements in AF symptom severity (P = .026), distress (P = .014), positive affect (P = .003), and ability to cope with stress (P = .001). Compared to waitlist control subjects, those in the immediate group reported improvement in positive affect (d = 1.20, P = .021) and coping with stress (d = 1.36, P = .011) after participating in the program.
Conclusion
The SMART Program, delivered virtually, may enhance positive emotions and coping with stress as well as decrease negative emotions and AF symptoms. These results warrant a larger trial to better understand the potential benefits of such programs for patients with PAF.
