For people with rheumatoid arthritis, online mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) both reduced pain interference more than a waitlist control, with comparable improvements in depression. MBSR was better than CBT for fear of progression after treatment and for functional ability at 6-month follow-up, while CBT alone reduced pain severity at 6-month follow-up. A history of recurrent depression did not affect how well either treatment worked. The effect sizes matched those of face-to-face interventions, confirming both online treatments are effective for rheumatoid arthritis.
Public safety personnel (PSP) such as police and firefighters face high risks of mental disorders and barriers to traditional treatments. The PSP Wellbeing Course, an internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) program, was supplemented with five mindfulness meditations. Among 40 enrolled clients, 68% used the meditations, averaging 4.8 minutes per week. Clients who completed the course showed statistically significant improvements in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and anger, but not insomnia. Self-reported meditation time did not predict symptom changes. Interviews revealed benefits alongside challenges like discomfort sitting with feelings. Clients suggested better integration, optional use, and shorter meditations. The study demonstrates partial feasibility of adding mindfulness to iCBT for PSP.