The impact of an educational podcast on emotional wellbeing and attitudes towards Charles Bonnet syndrome hallucinations.

BACKGROUND

Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is characterised by visual hallucinations in individuals with visual impairment, which can negatively impact emotional wellbeing. Educational interventions may help improve understanding and coping.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether an educational podcast on CBS could enhance emotional wellbeing and promote more positive attitudes toward hallucinations.

DESIGN

Pre-post exploratory study.

METHODS

Participants were recruited via charities and social media as part of a larger study on the psychosocial impact of CBS. A baseline survey collected data on CBS symptom characteristics, the perceived impact of hallucinations (rated on a 5-point Likert scale from very negative to very pleasant) and level of negative affect (negative emotional wellbeing), assessed by the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Participants then engaged with an educational podcast about CBS over a 3-week period. A follow-up survey assessed changes in emotional wellbeing, attitudes toward hallucinations, and symptom perception.

RESULTS

Fifty-four individuals with CBS (76% female; 70% aged >65 years) received the podcast. After the podcast intervention, 22 participants (41%) reported a less negative impact of CBS on their lives. There was a statistically significant improvement in perceived CBS impact (p < 0.01) and a statistically significant reduction in negative emotional wellbeing (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The educational podcast intervention was associated with improved emotional wellbeing, reflected in statistically significantly reduced negative affect and a decreased perceived burden of CBS. These findings suggest that educational podcasts may serve as a valuable tool for supporting the emotional health of individuals with CBS.