Using the CalmiGo Device to Reduce Anxiety and Panic Symptoms in Emergency Department Patients

Anxiety and panic attacks have led to a rising number of emergency department (ED) visits in recent years. While non-pharmacological treatments have been studied in non-acute settings, there is limited evidence on their use in the ED. This study evaluates the impact of the CalmiGo handheld device on improving anxiety and panic attack symptoms for ED patients.

We conducted a single institution, prospective study on the impact of the CalmiGo breathing regulation and aromatherapy device on decreasing anxiety and panic attack symptoms. Consented participants used the device three times during their ED stay and completed pre- and post-surveys. Paired t-tests were used to compare Panic Symptom Scale (PSS) questionnaire scores before and after device usage. Independent t-tests were used to compare mean PSS and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Point (GAD-7) scores based on prior anxiety severity and anxiety medication use.

35 ED patients aged 18 to 82 (mean = 36.5; standard deviation (SD) = 15.4) with a chief complaint of anxiety or panic attack symptoms were included. Patients with additional chief complaints, or with past medical history of obstructive respiratory disease, bipolar disorder, suicidality, and/or substance use were excluded. The mean PSS score was significantly lower (mean difference (MD) 15.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 12.2 to 19.1, p<0.01) after use of the CalmiGo device. The mean change in PSS scores after device use was significantly greater (MD 10.7, 95% CI 4.8 to 16.6, p<0.01) in the severe anxiety group, compared to the minimal, mild, and moderate anxiety group. There was no significant difference between the patients who took anxiety medications and those who did not for the mean PSS change (MD 3.1, 95% CI -3.8 to 10.0, p=0.36) nor for the mean GAD-7 score (MD 3.2, 95% CI -0.9 to 7.2, p=0.12).

Use of the CalmiGo device significantly reduced the self-reported symptoms for patients presenting to a single ED with chief complaints of anxiety or panic attack symptoms. Further studies are needed to validate and replicate these findings in other acute care settings.