Gail Ironson – författare

Living with HIV can be stressful, which can affect both your emotional and physical well-being. You may feel a loss of control over your life, socially isolated, or anxious and depressed. Studies have shown that prolonged stress can negatively impact the immune system, making it less effective in fighting illness. If you are concerned about the impact stress has on your life and on your health, this book can help you learn to relax and manage stress more effectively.This book presents a group treatment program that has been scientifically proven to reduce stress in individuals living with HIV. Written by the developers of this groundbreaking program, this workbook is based on the principles of Cognitive-Behavioral Stress Management (CBSM). You will learn a variety of relaxation techniques, all designed to help you reduce tension and stress. As you become more aware of stress and its effects, stress management skills will increase your ability to cope.This workbook comes complete with user-friendly monitoring forms and homework exercises designed to help reinforce the skills learned in group. It also includes instructions for relaxation practice that will remain useful long after you've completed the program. Used in conjunction with the group program described in the corresponding facilitator guide, this workbook will help you successfully manage stress and lead a more healthy life.

For individuals living with HIV, stress can have a critical impact on emotional and physical well-being. Many HIV-infected individuals feel a loss of control over their lives, experience social isolation, and may suffer from anxiety and depression. Stress has been shown to decrease immune functioning, which is a significant concern for HIV-infected individuals.Written by the developer of the treatment, this manual presents an empirically supported, group treatment program that teaches HIV-infected individuals how to manage their stress. This comprehensive Cognitive-Behavioral Stress Management (CBSM) program combines stress management with relaxation training. Each group meeting introduces a new relaxation method, such as progressive muscle relaxation, imagery, and meditation. Stress management skills build on one another and include cognitive restructuring, coping strategies, and establishing a strong social network. By the end of the program, participants are equipped with a variety of inter-related techniques that they can use to reduce stress and improve their quality of life.The guide is designed to be used in conjunction with the corresponding workbook, which provides exercises to be completed in session, monitoring forms, and homework assignments. Together they include all the material and information needed to effectively implement this program.