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RELGIMYR
Used guided imagery, past 12 months
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Description

RELGIMYR reports whether the person had used guided imagery (1999, 2002, 2007, 2012, 2017, 2022) or progressive relaxation (2022) in the past 12 months. Please see the Comparability and Universe Tabs for information on changes to the universe of this variable over time.

Prior to 2022, relaxation techniques were one of many alternative health treatment modalities included in the Complementary and Alternative Health Supplements. In some years, if sample respondents gave a positive response to RELGIMYR they were asked a series of follow-up questions.

Beginning in 2022, RELGIMYR was one of twenty-five variables sponsored by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to assess complementary and integrative health (CIH) practices. Please see THPYART to learn more about the Complementary and Integrative Health content section, including a complete list of CIH variables fielded in the 2022 NHIS.

Definitions 

The 1999 Field Representative's Manual says that "imagery" (not "guided imagery") is:

using the imagination or visualization to relieve pain and promote healing.

This definition was not routinely shared with respondents.

The 2002 Field Representative's Manual says that guided imagery:

involves a series of relaxation techniques followed by the visualization of detailed images, usually calm and peaceful in nature. If used for treatment, the client may visualize their body as healthy, strong, and free of the specific problem or condition. Sessions, conducted in groups or one-on-one, are typically 20 to 30 minutes in length, and may be practiced several times a week. Guided imagery has been advocated for a number of chronic conditions, including headaches, stress, high blood pressure, and anxiety.

This definition was not routinely shared with respondents.

The 2007 and later Field Representative's Manuals provide a similar definition:

Used for healing or health maintenance, guided imagery involves a series of relaxation techniques followed by the visualization of detailed images, usually calm and peaceful in nature. If used for treatment, the individual will visualize their body free of the specific problem or condition. Sessions are typically 20 to 30 minutes in length, and may be practiced several times a week.

Beginning in 2007, field representatives were advised to "feel free to offer [this definition] even if the respondent has not requested [it]."

In 2022, the questionnaire text shared with the respondent defined guided imagery and progressive relaxation in the following way:

Guided imagery uses visualization to relax. Progressive relaxation uses tensing and relaxing muscle groups.

Related Variables 

In 2022, additional information about the use of guided imagery and progressive relaxation was collected for respondents who reported using these techniques in the past 12 months, including to treat or manage physical pain and to restore overall health.

  • RELGIMPAIN: Used guided imagery or progressive relaxation for pain
  • RELGIMHLTH: Used guided imagery or progressive relaxation to restore overall health

Comparability

Changes in the universe and sample design affect comparability of this variable across time.

Sample Adults
In 2002, 2007 and 2012, sample adults 18 and older were asked whether they had ever used relaxation or stress management techniques, or meditation, guided imagery, or progressive relaxation (in 2012) (RELAXEV). If they indicated that they had ever used relaxation techniques, they were then asked whether they had used guided imagery in the past 12 months. In 1999, 2017, and 2022, sample adults 18 and older were asked whether they used guided imagery in the past 12 months without being first asked if they had ever used relaxation techniques.

Sample Children
In 2007, sample children were added to the universe for this question. In 2012 only, the sample child universe was restricted by if the sample child had ever used guided imagery (RELGIMEV). In 2007, respondents for sample children under 18 were asked about relaxation techniques, and in 2012, 2017, and 2022, respondents for sample children age 4 and older were asked about relaxation techniques.

In addition, the NHIS questionnaire was substantially redesigned in 2019 to introduce a different data collection structure and new content. For more information on changes in terminology, universes, and data collection methods beginning in 2019, please see the user note.

Universe

  • 1999: Sample adults age 18+.
  • 2002: Sample adults age 18+ who have ever used guided imagery for their health (RELGIMEV).
  • 2007: Sample adults age 18+ who have ever used guided imagery and sample children under 18.
  • 2012: Sample adults age 18+ and sample children age 4+ who have ever used guided imagery (RELGIMEV).
  • 2017: Sample adults age 18+ and sample children age 4+.
  • 2022: Sample adults age 18+ and sample children age 4-17.

Availability

  • 1999, 2002, 2007, 2012, 2017, 2022

Weights