Characterizing the experiences of flotation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique) treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): A phenomenological study

Among the anxiety disorders Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is currently the most treatment resistant, suggesting that treatment protocols could be enhanced. A promising treatment of GAD is flotation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique), which in earlier studies has been shown to alleviate symptoms in GAD. Although, research on flotation-REST as a treatment of GAD has shown promising result no study has explored how treatment is experienced. By applying a phenomenological perspective the present study aims to characterize the experiences of undergoing flotation-REST treatment while suffering from GAD. Nine participants with GAD, as defined with self-report measures, participated. Data was collected by semi-structured interviews that were conducted after the completion of a twelve session treatment program with flotation-REST. The Empirical Phenomenological Psychological (EPP) method was used for gathering and analyzing the data. The analysis resulted in six themes that characterize the experience of undergoing a flotation-REST treatment while having GAD: (1) obstacles in treatment, (2) a relaxed and safe vantage point, (3) non-ordinary states of consciousness, (4) connecting with oneself, (5) new attitudes and coping strategies, and (6) enhanced life-quality. The results highlights that flotation-REST treatment of GAD was experienced as a comprehensive process that were both challenging and pleasant. The results indicate that the method positively affected symptoms and the core issue associated with GAD on an experiential level. The present study also generated some initial understanding regarding potential mechanism that might mediate and maintain positive treatment effects when flotation-REST is applied as an intervention of GAD.