The overall goal of this K23 Mentored Career Development Award is to enhance the candidate's transition to an independent investigator of stress and stress-management for neurological conditions. Psychological stress can have detrimental effects in multiple sclerosis (MS) and is associated with worsening neurological symptoms, increased lesion burden on MRI, and decreased quality of life. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has improved health outcomes across a variety of conditions yet there is limited data regarding MBSR for people with MS or neurological disabilities in general. Furthermore, once the intervention is complete there is conflicting evidence as to the sustainability of MBSR effects over time: some studies show maintenance of effects while others find attenuation over 12 months. To this end, the specific aims of the proposed research are to: 1) Determine the feasibility of MBSR for people with MS, 2) Explore the ability of MBSR to improve quality of life and MS symptoms, and 3) Evaluate the durability of MBSR outcomes over a 12-month follow up. The candidate will conduct a randomized controlled trial of MBSR vs. education control (n=60). For feasibility, specific recruitment, adoption, and adherence criteria will determine success. For preliminary health outcomes, validated measures of perceived stress, quality of life, and common MS symptoms will be compared between MBSR and control participants at eight weeks. For durability, health outcomes will be tracked for 12 months post-intervention. At the close of the study, in-depth interviews with participants will explore actions, psychological outlook, environmental factors, and resources that enhance or deter stress-management maintenance. Qualitative data will provide context for quantitative outcomes and together these results will depict the stability of MBSR and the trajectory of behavior change post-intervention. To ensure her success, the candidate has devised a comprehensive program of mentored research, didactic training, and professional development that focuses on four specific training goals: 1) Gain expertise in mind-body behavioral intervention trials, 2) Advance knowledge in mixed methods and behavior change research, 3) Enhance statistical knowledge and abilities with a Master in Public Health, 4) Continue professional development as a presenter, mentor, and leader in CAM research. This award will provide a unique opportunity for the candidate to work collaboratively with two of the nation?s leading academic research institutions in CAM and conventional medicine. A cross-disciplinary team of experts in MS, mind-body medicine, stress outcomes, and qualitative methods will guide the candidate?s research and advanced training. The proposed research has the potential to improve the clinical application of MBSR, further elucidate the transition from behavior initiation to long-term behavior change, and substantially improve quality of life for people with MS. Findings may not only be applicable to MS but may serve as a model for other conditions with physical limitations or neurological impairments, as well. Importantly, this mentored K23 Career Development Award will prepare the candidate to become a successful, independently funded investigator in stress and stress-management for neurological conditions.
Psychological stress can have deleterious consequences for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). This project will evaluate a mind-body stress reduction program to decrease stress, improve symptom management, and enhance quality of life for individuals with MS. Results may improve the experience of living with MS and may also help millions of people living with other chronic neurological diseases.
| Senders, Angela; Hanes, Douglas; Bourdette, Dennis et al. (2018) Impact of mindfulness-based stress reduction for people with multiple sclerosis at 8?weeks and 12?months: A randomized clinical trial. Mult Scler :1352458518786650 |
| Senders, Angela; Borgatti, Alena; Hanes, Douglas et al. (2018) Association Between Pain and Mindfulness in Multiple Sclerosis: A Cross-sectional Survey. Int J MS Care 20:28-34 |
