Effect of muscle relaxation and cognitive psychotherapy on anxiety in patients

Introduction: One of the most common complication of myocardial infarction (MI) is subsequent psychological problems including anxiety and depression which most patients experience, reduces vital function and increases mortality. Clinical symptoms such as anxiety, preoccupation and negative ideas about probable ensuing cardiac attack imperils physical and mental health of patients. The objective of this study was of determine the level of anxiety and depression in patients during various periods: before, after and 3-months after muscle relaxation and cognitive psychotherapy. Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 60 patients with myocardial infarction who were put randomly in case and control groups. Assessment of anxiety and depression was done by pt and D Scales of MMPI (short form). SPSS software was used for data analysis. Results: Results showed that after treatment, anxiety and depression in cases were reduced significantly (P<0.01) in periods before, after and 3 months follow up after therapy, while this was constant in the control group. Conclusion: Muscle relaxation and cognitive psychotherapy have distinguishable effects on reducing level of anxiety and depression in patients with MI. This modalities can minimize the need for pharmacotherapy and make it possible to use nonmedicial methods.