Do you need help to manage anxiety, panic or worry?

We’ve partnered with psychology researchers at the University of Sheffield to trial a new self-help programme aimed at supporting people with pulmonary hypertension to manage their anxiety. Anxiety is common in PH, with about 50% of those with the condition experiencing clinical levels of anxiety or panic.

We’re inviting people with PH to take part in an important study to test its effectiveness, with the aim of making it available to all.  Read on for the opportunity to help both yourself and others…

What does the programme involve?

If you take part in the study, you will be asked to complete a series of online questions which will help us understand how suitable the study is for you. If you are accepted, you will be put into one of two groups at random.

One group will be asked to work through a series of workbooks based on a type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), used widely to help people experiencing difficulties with their mental wellbeing.

The  workbooks include information about PH and anxiety and how the two can interact, and a range of techniques and skills to help you to better understand and cope with symptoms such as excessive worry, fear, panic, nervousness and stress.

The books have already been reviewed by a panel of people living with PH, to ensure they are the best they can be for the study.

You will be asked to complete the four workbooks over a period of four weeks, in your own time at home. At the beginning, end and part way through the four-week period you will be asked to complete a short online questionnaire – and your answers will help us understand how effective the programme has been.

If the study shows the programme is effective, we will make it available to all PHA UK members so they can benefit from this type of support too.

People in the other group may receive the intervention at a later date.

Taking part in the programme

To take part in the study we ask that you:

• Are over 18
• Have a diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension
• Can read and write English
• Are able to complete online questionnaires

Unfortunately, because we are testing the programme’s effectiveness as a ‘first stage’ treatment, you cannot take part if you have received medication or therapy /psychological treatment for anxiety in the last 12 months, or are currently experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

How do I apply to take part?

The first stage is to complete a series of online questions. Please visit www.phauk.org and search ‘anxiety panic worry’ or email shaun@phauk.org for the link.

If you have any questions about the study, please contact lead researcher Gregg Rawlings at g.rawlings@sheffiled.ac.uk

You are not alone

If you are struggling with anxiety, panic or worry but do not fit the criteria for this study please email us at office@phauk.org or call 01709 76150 and we will talk you through the support that’s available