Exploring Zentangle as a virtual mindfulness-based art intervention for people with serious mental illness.

Introduction: Zentangle is an emerging art intervention that incorporates mindfulness into creative drawing. This pilot study explored Zentangle as a novel adjunct treatment for people with serious mental illness (SMI). Methods: Six participants with SMI completed an 8-week Zentangle program. Psychiatric outcomes were evaluated using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Scale (Q-LES-Q-SF). A focus group was conducted to better understand the experiences of the participants. Results: A significant reduction in psychiatric symptoms was observed as measured by the total score on the BPRS between baseline and 5-week post-intervention (40.7 ± 9.1 vs. 33.7 ± 8.9, mean ± SD, p = 0.02). Participants also showed a significant increase in mindful attention using the average score on the MAAS between 1- and 5-week post-intervention (3.5 ± 0.4 vs. 4.2 ± 0.7, mean ± SD, p = 0.04). Four themes were generated from the focus group: (1) approaching mindfulness through Zentangle; (2) power of uncomplicated art creation; (3) understanding the value of self-appreciation; and (4) fostering a positive environment. Discussion: Our preliminary data suggest that the use of Zentangle for participants with SMI may have a positive impact on overall psychiatric symptoms and mindfulness. Moreover, the Zentangle Method encourages positive emotions like gratitude and self-accomplishment to counteract negative feelings of self-criticism and failure in participants.

A Pilot Remote Drama Therapy Program Using the Co-active Therapeutic Theater Model in People with Serious Mental Illness.

The impact of drama therapy on mental health recovery remains poorly understood. We examined the effects of a pilot remote drama therapy program for community members living with serious mental illness. The entire intervention was delivered remotely. Participants with serious mental illness completed a 12-week drama therapy program which included an online performance open to the public. Four quantitative scales were administered pre- and post-program. A focus group was conducted 1 week after the performance. Six participants completed the program and crafted a public performance themed around hope. No significant differences were identified in the quantitative measures. Five themes were identified in the post-performance focus group. Drama therapy presents an opportunity for individuals with serious mental illness to process and share their journeys with their diagnoses and re-create a healthy sense of self with increased community awareness.

The Radiology Scholars Certificate Program: A Medical Education Learning Tool.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: The Radiology Scholars Certificate Program (RSCP) is an extracurricular program created for preclinical medical students to address disparities in radiology education and exposure during medical school. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The RSCP was designed as a year-long program for first- and second-year medical students. The 4 key components of the RSCP are: Exposure to radiology through shadowing, knowledge acquisition through self-paced case-based learning modules, knowledge application in interactive workshops, and completion of a scholarly project. Students are required to complete at least 3 hours of shadowing, attend at least 3 workshops, complete self-paced online modules, and complete a capstone project on a topic of their choosing. Pre- and post-program surveys were administered to assess trends in participants' perception of the field and imaging-related clinical knowledge. RESULTS: In the first year of the RSCP, 55% of the matriculating class enrolled and of those, 84% completed the program. Approximately half of participants were female. Participants demonstrated significant improvement in radiology knowledge, with average scores improving from 52.8% to 68.6% (p < .001) on the knowledge-related survey questions. Significant improvements were also observed in student-reported confidence with ordering and interpreting imaging studies and in their perceptions of the field. CONCLUSION: The RSCP is an effective tool for addressing deficits in radiology education and exposure during medical school. It is designed to be run by senior medical students under radiology resident and attending supervision. With motivated student and radiologist investment, the RSCP should be easily replicable in medical training programs worldwide.