Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on a Postpartum Woman with HIV and Depression: A Case Report
Fadilla Rifky Hasan, Susatyo Yuwono
Gadjah Mada Journal of Professional Psychology March 30, 2026 DOI: 10.22146/gamajpp.112953 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | 36-year-old HIV-positive housewife diagnosed with a depressive episode, undergoing antiretroviral and psychiatric treatment |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) |
| Duration | Eight sessions |
| Measures | Beck Depression Inventory |
| Topics | Depression Meditation |
| Key findings | Depressive symptoms reduced from moderate to mild after eight MBCT sessions, with improvements in emotional stability, self-awareness, and social functioning, allowing the participant to resume daily activities and maintain treatment adherence. |
Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection remains a complex psychological and social challenge, particularly for women in the postpartum period. This case study aimed to illustrate the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) within the biopsychosocial framework in reducing psychological distress in an HIV-positive housewife who had been diagnosed with a depressive episode. The research design was a single-case intervention study involving a 36-year-old woman who was undergoing both antiretroviral and psychiatric treatment. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, clinical observation, and measurement using the Beck Depression Inventory. The intervention was delivered in eight sessions, focusing on mindfulness exercises, breathing awareness, cognitive restructuring, and reflective journaling. The results showed a reduction in depressive symptoms from moderate to mild, accompanied by improvements in emotional stability, self-awareness, and social functioning. The participant could resume daily activities, establish positive communication with her partner, and maintain treatment adherence. These findings suggest that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy delivered within a biopsychosocial framework can improve psychological well-being and interpersonal functioning in women living with HIV. A holistic and culturally sensitive approach is essential to support their recovery and mental resilience.
Comparable studies
Other case reports and case series on depression, most cited first.