Attrition from mindfulness-based interventions is high among people with chronic pain, and factors affecting engagement are not well understood. This study aimed to inform the design of a mindfulness programme that would be accessible and acceptable for this population.
People with chronic pain who took an eight-week mindfulness program reported a variety of experiences, including for some a process of change that helped them live with their condition. Participants learned to listen to their bodies, gained a sense of community, accepted pain, and approached life with more self-care, awareness, appreciation, and empowerment. The program was based on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Of 34 consenting patients, 24 took part in the program; 14 attended four or more sessions and 10 attended one to three. Twenty-three were interviewed. The findings suggest mindfulness may benefit people with chronic pain.