OBJECTIVE: Although the treatment of depression should be comprehensive, there is insufficient information about non-pharmacological interventions used during hospitalization. Hence, the aim was to compare non-pharmacological interventions used in psychiatry clinics in Kiel (Germany) and Poznan (Poland).
METHODS: The retrospective study covered all patients hospitalized in 2016 (F32 or F33). Out of 545 patients hospitalized in 2016 in both centers, the analysis concerns 322 records from Kiel and 168 from Poznan.
RESULTS: Non-pharmacological treatments were used in both centers. However, in Kiel there were more therapeutic options. Contrary to Poznan, patients in Kiel used therapies like \"Kneippen\", Qigong, and light therapy.
CONCLUSIONS: Implementing Tai Chi in Kiel would be interesting to develop the scope of used interventions. Investment in non-pharmacological treatment should be a priority for healthcare decision-makers in Poland. The wide range of non-pharmacological interventions should be commonly accessible to provide the most comprehensive treatment.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the interest in Qigong as an alternative therapy has grown following reports of its ability to regulate psychological factors in cancer patients. This is a case series to evaluate the outcome measures of Qigong when used as an adjunct to standard medical care to treat insomnia and stress in cancer patients.
METHODS: The Qigong program was applied to four cancer patients with insomnia, stress, and anxiety. The program consisted of 30-min sessions involving exercise, patting of the 12 meridians, and spontaneous breathing exercises three times a week for a period of 4 weeks. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was measured as the primary outcome, while the Stress Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy-General determined the secondary outcomes. Insomnia, stress, and anxiety levels were examined weekly, while quality of life was examined on the first visit and the last visit.
RESULTS: The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Stress Scale scores were reduced after conduct of the Qigong program.
CONCLUSIONS: This study could provide a better understanding of Qigong\'s influence on insomnia and stress in cancer patients. However, a larger controlled trial should be conducted to confirm these findings.