Developing and testing the feasibility of a comprehensive psychological intervention to assess and manage the psychosocial impact of living with Chronic Respiratory Diseases amongst adults seeking pulmonary rehabilitation in rural India

Research Question: What comprehensive psychological intervention could be implemented to reduce the psychosocial impact of CRDs in adults seeking PR in rural India? Background: Chronic Respiratory Diseases (CRDs) impose a substantial psychosocial burden on affected individuals, particularly in rural settings where resources and tailored interventions are limited. We aim to develop and evaluate the feasibility of a comprehensive psychological intervention to address the psychosocial impact of CRDs among adults seeking pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in rural India. Methodology: A systematic review will identify existing psychological interventions within PR services, enabling selection of suitable models adaptable to a rural Indian context. In a qualitative phase we will then involve engaging stakeholders, including local healthcare practitioners and CRD patients, to explore their perspectives and needs. This will inform the development of a prototype intervention integrating education, behaviour change strategies, and tailored psychosocial support, drawing from evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). The feasibility of the intervention will be tested among 25 CRD patients enrolled in the local PR program over a six-month period. Outcomes will involve pre- and post-intervention assessments of mental well-being alongside qualitative feedback from participants and healthcare professionals. We aim to contribute empirical evidence for healthcare practitioners and community workers on the efficacy and viability of a tailored psychological intervention for CRD patients in resource-constrained rural settings. Questions to Discuss: 1. What challenges might arise in implementing and sustaining psychological interventions for CRD patients in resource limited rural areas? 2. Apart from traditional assessments, what alternative methods or metrics could be useful in evaluating the success of psychological interventions in improving the mental well-being of CRD patients? 3. What innovative solutions or approaches might help overcome the challenges associated with resource limitations in rural areas for implementing psychosocial interventions?