Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for psycho-oncology patients: an exploratory study. (7th January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kingston, T.; Collier, S.; Hevey, D.; McCormick, M. M.; Besani, C.; Cooney, J.; O'Dwyer, A. M.
• Is Part Of: Irish journal of psychological medicine. Volume 32:Number 3(2015:Sep.)
• Page Start: 265
• Page End: 274
• Publication Date: 2015-01-07
• Subjects: Anxiety, -- cancer, -- depression, -- mindfulness, -- mindfulness-based cognitive therapy; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2014.81
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0790-9667

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is a group-based intervention similar to mindfulness-based stress reduction, but which includes cognitive therapy techniques. This study investigates its usefulness in the treatment of depressive, anxiety and stress/distress symptoms in cancer patients referred to a psycho-oncology service. It also examines whether effect on depression is mediated by self-compassion. Method: In phase 1 of this study, 16 cancer patients with mild/moderate psychological distress were randomised to MBCT ( n =8) or treatment as usual (TAU; n =8), and assessed pre- and post-treatment. Analysis of variance was performed to examine the effect of treatment on anxiety and depression. In phase 2, the TAU group received the intervention, and results of pre- and post-MBCT assessments were combined with those receiving MBCT in phase 1. Finally, both groups were followed up at 3 months. Results: In phase 1, the MBCT group had a significant improvement in mindfulness and a decrease in anxiety. Statistically significant improvements in both depression and anxiety were found at 3 month follow-up. Self-compassion appeared to mediate the effect on anxiety/depression. Conclusion: This small pilot study suggests that MBCT may have a beneficial effect on psychological variables often adversely affected in cancer in a heterogeneous cancer population.