Acupuncture and Meditation for Wellness (AMWELL)

Targeted to female adult survivors of chilhood sexual abuse

Adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse suffer psychological consequences potentially throughout their lifetimes, with well being often diminished by symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Data from national surveys suggest that those suffering from psychological distress frequently use complementary medicine to help them, and most of these do so concurrent with conventional treatment. Evidence has emerged of the efficacy of two such therapies, a mindfulness meditation training program called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and the traditional Chinese medicine practice of acupuncture, suggesting they are beneficial for the treatment of depression and improving well being.

Our research group recently conducted an observational pilot study of MBSR with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. In this study we found that depressive symptoms were reduced by 64% and PTSD diagnosis was reduced by 62% by the end of the study. The MBSR intervention was found to be very safe, and highly acceptable to participants, who were enthusiastic about the program. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms in recent research, and it has been seen to reduce depression in clinical trials. To further test both these interventions as beneficial specifically to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, we are conducting a randomized, controlled clinical trial of mindfulness meditation (MBSR) and acupuncture to improve well being.

Female adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse with moderate psychological distress who are currently under the care of a licensed therapist or physician, will be recruited. Following informed consent, participants will be evaluated by a clinician for the presence of co-morbid psychiatric conditions and other inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eighty nine eligible participants will be randomized to one of three groups: 1) acupuncture treatment for 8 weeks; 2) MBSR class for 8 weeks; or 3) waitlist control. Participants will be evaluated at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks for depressive symptoms, PTSD, psychological distress, post-traumatic growth, psychological well being, perceived stress, coping self efficacy, pain, sleep quality and mindfulness.

Participants will be asked to maintain their relationship with their psychotherapist and/or physician and to continue following their individual treatment plan during the course of study participation.

We will ask the psychotherapist or physician of potential participants to complete a form indicating that these interventions would be appropriate for his or her client. Please do not hesitate to call  (410-448-6590) or email Laura Benzel, research coordinator, (lbenzel@compmed.umm.edu) with any questions you may have.

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