Question 1

Am I eligible?

Accepted Answer

We are seeking women between 30 to 60 years old. Find out if you're eligible by taking the quick eligibility screener.

Question 2

What will I do in this study?

Accepted Answer

If you agree, the following procedures will occur:   In Part A (Home Questionnaires) of this study, we are asking you to complete an online questionnaire (approximately 25 minutes) and brief daily surveys in the morning and evening. The purpose of Part A is to gather basic information about you (demographics) as well as your general thoughts, feelings and daily experiences in daily life.   In Part B of this study (UCSF), we are asking you to come to UCSF where you will do some analytical tasks and relaxation while we monitor your thoughts and your body’s reactions (such as increases in heart rate). During each lab session, you will be asked to provide up to six saliva samples and two blood spots (finger pricks). Prior to each task, research assistants will describe the task and ask you whether you are comfortable taking part in that task. You can opt out of any part you are not comfortable with.  At the end of the visit, you will be randomly assigned to a stress resilience condition that can be described as: Method of Breathing and Shower or Technique of Breathing and Shower.   In Part C of this study (Daily Practices), we are asking you to take part in a 21-day stress resilience program at home (takes about 15-20 minutes each day), a follow-up online questionnaire, as well as a follow-up in-person laboratory visit.   You will be trained to breathe at specific intervals and in some cases you might be asked to do short-term breath retention (holding your breath). The breathing practice will happen each morning for three weeks. You will receive an instructional audio/video daily via text message that will guide you through the breathing exercise. The training also includes specific instructions on adjusting the temperature (i.e., to colder or hotter than usual) of your daily showers (in addition to your normal showering routine).

Question 3

Can I change the condition I am assigned to?

Accepted Answer

You cannot switch conditions. The group you are “assigned to” is completely random. Before you participate in the study, please make sure you are okay with being a part of either breathing technique.

Question 4

How much time will my participation take?

Accepted Answer

You will do the practice each day for 15 minutes. To help us evaluate the effect of the practices, you will fill out the baseline questionnaires at home (25 minutes), fill out a daily diary (10 minutes a day), and have 2 lab visits (125 minutes each).

Question 5

How is this study funded?

Accepted Answer

This study is being sponsored by the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation.

Question 6

Can I stop being in the study?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PARTICIPATION IN RESEARCH IS VOLUNTARY. You may choose to end your participation in the study at any time, and you will be fully compensated for the time you’ve already spent during the study.   If you feel uncomfortable at any time while participating, please tell us immediately so that we can either address the situation or end the session. You are free to withdraw your consent and discontinue participation at any time without any penalties. Also, the study staff may stop you from taking part in any study at any time if she believes it is in your best interest, if you do not follow the study rules, or if the study is stopped.

Question 7

Will information about me be kept private?

Accepted Answer

All of the information that we obtain will be kept confidential. We will store the records in a locked cabinet, and a code number will be used to identify your records in our data analysis.   UCSF may look at and/or copy your research records for research, quality assurance, and data analysis but your information will be unidentified and confidential.

Question 8

Does it cost to participate in this study?

Accepted Answer

No costs are associated with your participation in this study.

Question 9

Will I be paid for taking part in this study?

Accepted Answer

You will be compensated $470 if you complete all parts of the study + a chance to win a $200 Amazon gift card. You will also be compensated for parking on the UCSF campus.

UCSF Stress and Resilience Study

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