P3.200: The therapeutic potential of journaling in mitigating stress among parents of children in the pediatric intensive care unit: A pilot study

Background: Journaling has shown benefits for psychological recovery in adult intensive care unit patients, reducing risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although the focus of medical attention is devoted to the children in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), the parents and caregivers who accompany them often carry an immense psychological burden. The utility of journaling and benefits in mitigating stress of parents of children in the pediatric intensive care unit is underexplored.

Methods: Families admitted to the PICU were given a PICU Diary containing stress-relieving activities, and space to journal. This pilot study included IRB approved retrospective chart reviews and follow-up phone interviews of 28 parents of children admitted to a suburban PICU that were given a PICU Diary. Participants completed a PC-PTSD screen, Perceived stress scale (PSS), provided demographic data, and shared quantitative and qualitative data regarding utility of journaling during their admission and beyond. Associations between PTSD Screening results, PSS score, demographics, use of journaling, and demographic factors were analyzed

Results: 68% (N= 19) of parents of children admitted to the PICU scored moderate/high stress via PSS score. 82% of parents (N = 23) used the journal, and 96% (N = 22) of those families found the journal to be useful in reducing their stress. Statistical analysis is in process to understand statistical significance of associations between PSS/PC-PTSD score, journaling, and demographic factors. Decreased PSS scores showed a positive trend towards usage of journal during admission and after. Qualitative testimony of families demonstrated positive feedback regarding the use of journals as a source of comfort and stability during their stressful PICU experience.

Conclusion: This study highlights the heightened burden of stress on families in the PICU and suggests that they are receptive to journaling when prompted. Furthermore, they have found it useful as a tool for stress reduction during their hospital admission and after. This study demonstrates the need for continued research on the therapeutic effects of journaling, as well as the importance for hospital system investment in journaling as a tool to improve the quality of care provided to children in the PICU and their families.