Background: Autogenic training is a relaxation technique that uses systematic exercises to induce a general disconnection of the organism. It is used in conjunction with conventional medical care as part of disease management to relieve symptoms associated with chronic health problems and to improve well-being. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy of autogenic training on psychological well-being, quality of life, and adverse effects in people living with chronic physical health problems.
Methods: The methodology used follows the recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Studies, published up to December 31, 2019, will be identified through searches in the following databases: MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, SCOPUS, PsychINFO, CINAHL, EBM Reviews, Google Scholar, Dissertations & Theses Global, Open Access Theses and Dissertations, OpenGrey, E-Theses Online Service, Grey Literature Report, eScholarship@McGill, Papyrus, and CorpusUL. All studies of randomized controlled trials that assess autogenic training as an intervention to improve psychological well-being and quality of life in adults aged 18 and older living with one or more chronic physical health problem will be considered eligible. The study selection, the data collection, and the evaluation of the risk of bias will be conducted independently and in duplicate by two reviewers. RoB 2 tool will be used to assess the risk of bias. Discrepancies will be resolved through discussion. A tabular and narrative synthesis of data is planned, and a meta-analysis will be done according to the quality of data. The primary outcomes will be general psychological distress, depression, and anxiety, and the secondary outcomes will be quality of life and adverse effects. The present protocol of systematic review is reporting following MECIR standards for the reporting of protocols and the PRISMA-P recommendations.
Discussion: Autogenic training appears to be a promising therapy to improve psychological well-being and quality of life in people living with chronic physical health problems, but no recent reports have synthesized the available evidence in this population. The results of this review will examine and synthesize the evidence on the benefits and harms of autogenic training on psychological well-being and quality of life in people living with chronic physical health problems, thus supporting the development of best practices for complementary approaches.
Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42018105347.
Keywords: Anxiety; Autogenic training; Chronic conditions; Depression; Psychological distress; Quality of life; Relaxation.