Breathing interventions and depression: client experiences and scoping review A thesis submitted to the University of Manchester for the degree of Doctor of Clinical Psychology The aim of this thesis was to explore client experiences of a breathing practice used in compassion focused therapy (soothing rhythm breathing) and to review the literature to develop an understanding of types of breathing practices that have been evaluated for depression. The thesis is presented as three separate papers. Paper One is a scoping review aimed to identify, categorise and synthesise breathing interventions that have been evaluated for depression, in order to inform further research and reviews. A thematic synthesis approach was used to analyse descriptions of breathing interventions in order to categorise these via their common features. Thirty papers were included in the final synthesis. Main themes developed from thematic synthesis were related to procedural aspects of breathing interventions, namely: attention and awareness, using the body and senses, and paced breathing. Clinical implications and suggestions for further research are discussed. Paper Two is an empirical investigation exploring client experiences of soothing rhythm breathing (SRB). This study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals with depression who had practiced SRB in NHS primary care services. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to analyse data from individual semi-structured interviews. Eight participants (n= 8) were recruited from NHS primary care services. Three experiential themes were identified: mind-body connection and bodily needs, a new relationship with the mind, and slowing down: shifting to the new and challenging. Results highlighted the benefits for connecting with the body and the challenges of practicing. Clinical implications and suggestions for further research are discussed. Finally, Paper Three is a critical reflection of the development, progress and processes involved in completing the project. This paper provides rationale for methodologies used in the project and outlines decision-making processes over the research. Strengths and limitations are also considered, alongside future directions for research. This paper also details personal reflections and learning over the thesis project.
Date of Award | 1 Aug 2024 |
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Original language | English |
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Awarding Institution | - The University of Manchester
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Supervisor | Tobyn Bell (Supervisor) & Richard Brown (Supervisor) |
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- depression
- soothing-rhythm breathing
- qualitative
- interpretative phenomenological analysis
- compassion focused therapy
- heart rate variability biofeedback
- breathing techniques
- scoping review
Breathing interventions and depression: client experiences and scoping review
French, J. (Author). 1 Aug 2024
Student thesis: Doctor of Clinical Psychology