Implementation and effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for mild depression in primary care: Protocol for a stepped-wedge cluster RCT
SSM - Mental Health June 16, 2026 Caroline Krauser, Eduardo Jardim Simões, Chester Schmaltz et al.
Depression and anxiety symptoms are a major cause of disability worldwide. Mindfulness-based interventions are proven treatments for mild-to-moderate cases, but evidence on their real-world feasibility and effectiveness is limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This paper describes a randomized stepped-wedge trial with qualitative analysis that will evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for depression symptoms in primary care patients in Brazil. The study aims to generate context-sensitive evidence to improve public health strategies and inform sustainable depression treatments in low- and middle-income countries.