Resilient youth with neurofibromatosis: Less perceived stress and greater life satisfaction after an 8-week virtual mind–body intervention

Abstract

Objectives

The neurofibromatoses (NF) are rare, incurable genetic disorders. Adolescents with NF report greater stress and lower life satisfaction compared to same-age peers. We report on changes in life satisfaction and perceived stress following an 8-week single-blind, virtual randomized controlled trial of a mind–body intervention versus an educational control.

Methods

Adolescents (N = 51) completed measures at baseline, post-treatment (N = 45), and 6 months later (N = 39).

Results

Adolescents were geographically diverse, 41% female, and 76% White. Adolescents randomized to the intervention had greater improvements from baseline to post-test in stress compared to those in control; these were maintained through 6 months. Those randomized to intervention also reported greater improvement in life satisfaction from baseline to 6 months.

Conclusions

The NF tailored mind–body program resulted in sustained reduction in stress and improved life satisfaction. A virtual model of mind–body care may help adolescents who face other chronic medical illness.

Keywords:

• Adolescents
• life satisfaction
• mind–body
• neurofibromatosis
• stress
• virtual

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ana-Maria Vranceanu

Ana-Maria Vranceanu reported receiving funding from the Department of Defense and the National Institutes of Health and serving on the scientific advisory board for the Calm application outside of the submitted work.