Improving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome through positive psychology techniques
A Positive Psychology Intervention for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11136630
This study is looking at how positive thinking exercises can help people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) feel better mentally and emotionally, using a friendly 9-week phone program called 'WISH' to see if it works better than just learning about IBS.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11136630 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of positive psychology interventions (PPIs) to help individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It aims to enhance the mental well-being of patients through simple exercises that promote resilience and positive thinking. The study will involve a 9-week phone-based program called 'WISH,' which will be compared to an educational control group to assess its feasibility and effectiveness. By focusing on the gut-brain connection, the research seeks to address the limitations of current behavioral treatments for IBS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients with IBS who do not engage with psychological interventions or those with severe psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management of IBS symptoms and enhanced quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While positive psychology interventions have shown promise in other areas, this specific application for IBS is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MADVA, ELIZABETH NOBLE — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: MADVA, ELIZABETH NOBLE
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.