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Haniyeh Khosh; Vahid SadeghiFiroozabadi; Mohsen Dehghani; Ali Khatibi; AbdolReza Nasser Moghaddasi; vahid Abdolmanafi
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to explore the role of executive functions in moderating the relationship between medication adherence and depression among individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, and both cognitive and emotional factors can ...
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Objective: This study aimed to explore the role of executive functions in moderating the relationship between medication adherence and depression among individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, and both cognitive and emotional factors can significantly influence how patients adhere to treatment plans. Medication adherence is crucial for disease management, and depression is a common comorbidity in MS patients, often complicating adherence. Understanding the relationship between depression, cognitive functions, and treatment adherence can help improve therapeutic outcomes. Method: This research was conducted as a descriptive-correlational study, targeting MS patients residing in Tehran. The sample consisted of 229 participants, selected through convenience sampling. These individuals completed three standardized questionnaires: the Beck Depression Inventory (second edition, 2005), the Executive Function Questionnaire by Najafi et al. (2014), and the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (2008). Data collection was done through a paper-and-pencil survey method. To analyze the data, Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to examine relationships between variables, and stepwise regression analysis was performed to determine if executive functions moderate the relationship between depression and medication adherence. Results: The study found that depressive symptoms were a significant predictor of poor medication adherence in MS patients (p<0.01). This suggests that patients with higher levels of depression are more likely to struggle with adhering to their treatment regimens. Additionally, executive functions such as memory, planning, and social cognition were found to significantly predict medication adherence (p<0.01). These cognitive abilities likely help patients better manage their treatment schedules and follow medical instructions. However, the study did not find evidence supporting the role of executive functions as a moderator in the relationship between depressive symptoms and medication adherence (p>0.01). This indicates that while cognitive abilities and depression are related to medication adherence, executive functions do not appear to change the strength or direction of the relationship between depression and adherence. Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of both depressive symptoms and executive functions in influencing medication adherence in MS patients. Given that poor medication adherence can lead to worse health outcomes, addressing both cognitive and emotional barriers to treatment is critical. Healthcare providers should consider these factors when designing treatment plans for MS patients. For example, interventions aimed at improving executive functions, such as memory and planning, as well as addressing depression, may be beneficial. By targeting both cognitive and emotional challenges, providers can help patients better adhere to their treatment regimens, which could ultimately improve disease prognosis and quality of life. Furthermore, healthcare teams should be aware of the multifaceted nature of treatment adherence and incorporate psychological and cognitive assessments into routine care to ensure comprehensive support for MS patients. In conclusion, while executive functions may not moderate the relationship between depression and adherence, they are still crucial in predicting adherence, suggesting that an integrated approach to treatment planning is vital for enhancing medication compliance in MS patients.
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Khatereh Faqirzada; Fateme Dehghani-Arani
Abstract
Objective: The research explores the effectiveness of mindfulness training on executive functions in professional bodybuilders with physical injuries, with a focus on its impact on reducing mental rumination. The study investigates how mindfulness may influence cognitive functions and whether this ...
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Objective: The research explores the effectiveness of mindfulness training on executive functions in professional bodybuilders with physical injuries, with a focus on its impact on reducing mental rumination. The study investigates how mindfulness may influence cognitive functions and whether this influence is mediated by a decrease in mental rumination among the athletes. Method: he research is an applied semi-experimental study employing a randomized controlled trial design. It focuses on professional bodybuilders with physical injuries in Tehran, with a final sample of 40 participants. The participants were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Both groups completed pretests, and the experimental group received a 12-session mindfulness program while the control group had no intervention. Posttests were administered to both groups. Executive Function Questionnaire (EFQ), Ruminative Response Styles (RRS), and a Mindfulness Program Protocol were utilized as research tools. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used for data analysis, and path analysis assessed the mediating role of rumination in the intervention's effectiveness on executive functions. Results: Results Summary: After adjusting for pretest differences, there was a significant reduction in posttest rumination scores in the experimental group compared to the control group (P < 0.01, F = 37.14), with 28% of the changes attributed to the intervention. Mindfulness intervention effectively decreased rumination (P < 0.01). Moreover, 79% of the changes in posttest scores of executive functions were linked to the intervention. Significant differences in posttest scores were observed in overall executive functions (P < 0.01, F = 31.38), memory (P < 0.01, F = 31.52), inhibitory control and selective attention (P < 0.01, F = 31.69), and decision-making (P < 0.01, F = 31.28). No significant differences were found in planning, sustained attention, social cognition, and cognitive flexibility (P > 0.05). The effect size indicated that 28% of changes in executive functions, 63% in memory, 77% in inhibitory control and selective attention, and 48% in decision-making were due to the intervention. Path analysis showed significant coefficients for the influence of the mindfulness program on executive functions, memory, inhibitory control, and decision-making. Rumination played a mediating role in the effectiveness of the mindfulness program on executive functions. Conclusion: Mindfulness-based therapy effectively reduces cognitive distortions in professional bodybuilder athletes with physical injuries. By cultivating awareness through deep breathing and thoughtful attention, the therapy enhances mental well-being. The study highlights the mediating role of cognitive distortions in the effectiveness of mindfulness on executive functions. This suggests that mindfulness intervention positively influences executive functions by mitigating cognitive distortions. The findings advocate for the incorporation of mindfulness programs in sports psychology and therapy centers to enhance athletes' mental health.
