Effect of positive psychology-based audio messages on optimism and hope among patients with acute coronary syndrome

Acute coronary syndrome is the most common cardiovascular disorder. Hope and optimism lead to adaptation to and moderation of the damaging effects of depressed mood on the outcome of this disorder. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of positive psychology-based audio messages on hope and optimism among patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Methods & Materials:

 In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 84 patients with acute coronary syndrome were assigned to either intervention or control groups in Shahrekord educational hospitals in 2017-2018. The intervention group received audio messages based on positive psychology and cardiovascular self-care, and control group only received self-care messages in two hospital admissions and six weeks after discharge. The Life Orientation Test-Revised and the Snyderchr('39')s Hope Scale were completed before the intervention, at the discharge time, one week and six weeks after the intervention. Data were analyzed by c² and Fisher exact tests and analysis of variance using the SPSS software version 20.

No significant difference is observed in the mean score of hope before the intervention and at the discharge time. However, the mean score of hope was significantly different between the two groups, one week and six weeks after the intervention (P<0.001). There was no significant difference in the mean score of optimism between the two groups before the intervention. Nevertheless, difference in the mean score of optimism was significant at the discharge time (P=0.027), one week and six weeks after the intervention (P<0.001).

Positive psychology-based messages improve hope and optimism in patients with acute coronary syndrome. Therefore, this intervention is recommended along with other treatments.