Pilot Study on Using Cardiac Coherence Breathing to Prevent Chronic Post-traumatic Stress Disorder after Acute Stress

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring the potential benefits of a respiratory training program called cardiac coherence in people who have acute stress disorder after experiencing a traumatic event. This pilot study aims to see if this method can help prevent chronic post-traumatic stress disorder from developing after three months. The study also seeks to understand how feasible and acceptable the program is for patients. Participants will learn how to practice cardiac coherence with guidance from a trained practitioner during their first visit. They will receive a smartphone app to guide their breathing and a diary to track their adherence. The training involves performing six respiratory cycles per minute, with specific inhale and exhale durations, for five minutes, three times a day at home over three months. During the study, patients will be monitored through questionnaires and heart rate variability measurements at the start and after three months. Compliance with the breathing exercises will be tracked monthly. Researchers will assess the proportion of patients who do not develop post-traumatic stress disorder by month three, as well as any complications related to the disorder. The total participation lasts at least three months, including ongoing support and evaluation.

Interest of Cardiac Coherence in the Prevention of Chronic Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: Pilot Study