JAMA Psychiatry
January 29, 2020
Z. Segal, Sona Dimidjian, A. Beck et al.
A web-based mindfulness-based cognitive therapy program (Mindful Mood Balance) added to usual depression care improved residual depressive symptoms more than usual care alone. Over 15 months, patients receiving the program had greater symptom reduction, higher remission rates, and lower relapse risk. They also experienced more depression-free days, less anxiety, and better mental functioning, though physical functioning did not differ. The program involved eight online sessions with minimal coaching support.
Mindfulness
April 29, 2019
J. Michalak, C. Crane, C. Germer et al.
An expert group developed guidelines for responsibly integrating mindfulness practices into individual therapy, informed by a literature review. Recommendations address types of integration, suitable diagnoses, therapist qualifications, case formulation, the inquiry process, optimal practice types and duration, managing difficult experiences, and training programs. The authors note that research on this topic is scarce, so the recommendations are tentative and intended to stimulate further discussion.
Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology
February 1, 2019
Z. Segal, A. Anderson, T. Gulamani et al.
Preventing relapse of major depression may depend on developing the ability to decenter from negative thoughts, not just on managing residual symptoms. In a 24-month follow-up of remitted depressed patients who completed either cognitive therapy or mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, growth in decentering and distress tolerance occurred after treatment ended, while residual symptoms did not change. Greater practice of therapy-acquired regulatory skills after treatment boosted decentering, which in turn predicted a reduced risk of relapse or recurrence over two years. Decentering slope was a significant predictor of prophylaxis, with a hazard ratio of 0.232.
Current Opinion in Psychology
January 28, 2019
Z. Segal, Sona Dimidjian, Rachel Vanderkruik et al.
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy combines mindfulness meditation with cognitive theory to treat recurrent mood disorders. Despite strong evidence for its effectiveness, MBCT is not widely used in routine clinical or population health settings. Two key questions remain unresolved: how important is home practice of mindfulness skills for achieving benefits, and what role can digital platforms play in delivering mindfulness programs. Answering these questions could improve future research and practice, helping contemplative practices support self-care.
BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
March 11, 2014
S. Eisendrath, Erin P Gillung, K. Delucchi et al.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) added to antidepressant medication is no more effective than a control program (Health-Enhancement Program, HEP) for reducing depression severity in adults with treatment-resistant depression. Adults with moderate to severe depression who had not responded to at least two antidepressant trials were randomly assigned to either MBCT or HEP, both as add-ons to their usual medication. After 8 weeks, changes in depression severity, response rates, and remission rates were measured. Participants were followed for one year. The study addresses the need for effective non-pharmacologic treatments for treatment-resistant depression, which affects up to 40% of depressed patients.