Main Research Findings

Autogenic training is a well-established self-induced relaxation technique based on autosuggestion, and in recent decades, a growing number of AT studies strongly suggest the practical usefulness of psychophysiological relaxation in the area of medicine. 2 Studies demonstrate that AT brings about autonomic cardiorespiratory changes paralleled by central nervous system activity modifications and psychological outputs. 2 Studies demonstrate consistent efficacy of AT in reducing anxiety and medium range positive effects for mild-to-moderate depression. 2 However, the impact on bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, and acute stress disorder remains unexplored. 2 As an add-on intervention psychotherapy technique with beneficial outcome on psychophysiological functioning, AT represents a promising avenue towards expanding research findings of brain-body links beyond the current limits of the prevention and clinical management of number of mental disorders. 2

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Autogenic training may be useful for reducing anxiety and improving symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression. 2 It has also been shown to have positive effects on overall mental and physical health. 2 In addition, autosuggestion can potentially reduce side effects from medications, save costs, and provide relief in areas where medication or other therapies are problematic without deceiving patients. 3

Risk Summary

Autogenic training is generally considered a safe practice, but it is not without risks. 3 While no side effects have been reported, there is always a possibility of unexpected reactions depending on the individual's situation. 3 Autogenic training should be used as a complementary method rather than a replacement for other treatments. 4

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities between Studies

Many studies indicate that autogenic training can be an effective means of reducing anxiety and improving mild-to-moderate depression. 2 It is also common that autosuggestion can positively impact overall mental and physical health. 2 Additionally, there is a common understanding that autosuggestion can potentially reduce side effects from medications, save costs, and provide relief in areas where medication or other therapies are problematic without deceiving patients. 3

Differences between Studies

The effectiveness of autogenic training can vary depending on individual patient characteristics and treatment methods. 2 Some studies have not been able to confirm the effectiveness of autosuggestion. 6 Further research is needed to validate the effectiveness of autosuggestion.

Consistency and Discrepancies in Results

While there are many studies indicating that autosuggestion can be an effective means of reducing anxiety and improving mild-to-moderate depression, its effects can vary greatly among individuals, and it is not effective for everyone. 2 Additionally, there are studies showing that autosuggestion is an effective treatment and others that cannot confirm its effectiveness. 6 Further research is needed to address these inconsistencies.

Cautions for Practical Application

Autogenic training is a technique that can potentially contribute to anxiety and stress reduction and improve mental and physical health. 2 However, autogenic training should be used as a complementary method rather than a replacement for other treatments. 4 It is crucial to seek guidance from professionals when using autogenic training. 5

Limitations of Current Research

Research on autogenic training is still insufficient. 2 In particular, the impact on serious mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, psychosis, and acute stress disorder remains unexplored. 2 Further research is needed to validate the effectiveness of autosuggestion.

Future Research Directions

Further research on autogenic training is necessary. 2 In particular, it is important to investigate the effectiveness of autogenic training for serious mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, psychosis, and acute stress disorder. 2 Research is also crucial to identify the optimal methods for enhancing the effectiveness of autogenic training. 6

Conclusion

Autogenic training is a promising self-induced relaxation technique that can potentially contribute to reducing anxiety and improving symptoms of mild-to-moderate depression. 2 However, autogenic training should be used as a complementary method rather than a replacement for other treatments. 4 Further research is needed to validate the effectiveness of autosuggestion. If you are interested in autogenic training, it is recommended to seek guidance from a professional. 5