Experiences of Mindfulness Training in Living with Rheumatic Disease: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
British Journal of Occupational Therapy March 1, 2011 DOI: 10.4276/030802211x12996065859283 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 5 |
| Population | Adults aged 46-69 diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia, or rheumatoid arthritis who completed an 8-week MBSR programme |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) |
| Duration | 8-week programme, 6 months prior to study |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Citations | 27 |
| Key findings | Participants reported that mindfulness training helped them respond to pain and improved their psychological wellbeing, with all speaking similarly and enthusiastically about its impact on daily life. The authors indicate mindfulness has potential to improve health and wellbeing in this population, reinforcing previous research. |
Abstract
Introduction: This study examined the experiences of mindfulness training for five adults living with rheumatic disease.
Method: Focus group data were used to explore the experience and impact of mindfulness training in participants aged between 46 and 69 years diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia or rheumatoid arthritis. All participants had completed an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme 6 months prior to the study.
Findings: Interpretative phenomenological analysis produced two themes: ‘responding to pain’ and ‘psychological wellbeing’. All participants spoke similarly and with enthusiasm, reflecting the strength of the impact of mindfulness upon the daily lives of these individuals. Methodological limitations are considered along with clinical applications and suggestions for future research.
Conclusion: The findings from this study reinforce the outcomes of previous research and indicate that mindfulness has the potential to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals living with rheumatic disease.