A group of adults in a modern rehabilitation center, engaged in both physical exercises and mental wellness activities, supervised by health professionals. The setting is dynamic, capturing a sense of recovery and holistic well-being, participants working together in an inspiring environment.
Post-COVID conditions continue to impact millions, with many struggling to regain their previous health. An innovative rehabilitation program called the REGAIN study, designed as an online group rehabilitation initiative, provides promising results. The study evaluates physical and mental recovery in adults suffering from post-COVID conditions.
The randomized controlled trial involved 12 weeks of supervised group therapy sessions, including both physical and psychological rehabilitation. The sessions aimed to help participants recover their physical strength and improve mental health outcomes. The research team, led by Gordon McGregor, designed a program combining expert-guided physical exercises with psychological support. “Our goal was to offer a holistic rehabilitation process addressing both physical and mental health challenges faced by individuals after COVID-19,” McGregor emphasized.
Program Methodology
The rehabilitation sessions involved both physical exercises and mental health coaching. According to Harbinder Sandhu, co-leader of the study, “the importance of mental health post-COVID cannot be overstated. By addressing psychological aspects alongside physical recovery, we aim to improve overall well-being.” Participants benefited from personalized care tailored to their specific recovery needs.
Psychiatrist Bartholomew Sheehan contributed to the mental health segment of the study, highlighting the significant stress and anxiety many participants faced. “We worked to address not only the physical symptoms of post-COVID but also the psychological trauma many of these individuals endured,” Sheehan explained. A key component of the program was the mental health coaching offered alongside physical rehabilitation.
Results and Impact
Results from the study revealed significant improvements in participants’ health. A notable percentage reported better physical strength and improved mental resilience. David McWilliams, one of the core researchers, shared that the data shows marked reductions in chronic fatigue and psychological distress among participants. “Our study provides evidence that group-based rehabilitation programs can accelerate recovery in post-COVID patients,” McWilliams added.
However, the study’s design also recognized that not all participants could commit to the full program, which raised questions about accessibility and long-term adherence. Julie Bruce, another lead researcher, mentioned that ongoing support and follow-up are essential to maintain long-term health gains. “Sustained recovery requires continuous effort, and we need to address barriers to participation to maximize outcomes,” Bruce noted.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the research team aims to expand the REGAIN program, making it accessible to a larger demographic. “We are working on ways to make this program available to more patients, including those in remote areas who might not have access to in-person rehabilitation options,” Joyce Yeung said. The success of the REGAIN trial offers a template for future rehabilitation efforts in response to COVID-19 and similar conditions.
The REGAIN study demonstrates that online supervised group rehabilitation can play a vital role in post-COVID recovery. By combining physical exercises with mental health coaching, the program helps individuals regain their health and well-being after suffering from long COVID.
Citation:
McGregor G, Sandhu H, Bruce J, et al. Clinical effectiveness of an online supervised group physical and mental health rehabilitation programme for adults with post-covid-19 condition (REGAIN study): multicentre randomised controlled trial. BMJ. 2024;384. doi:10.1136/bmj-2023-076506.
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