A mindfulness course helps deal with depression

Unlike other types of psychological help, MBCT combines the intensive practice of mindfulness meditation with the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This approach helps people to better cope with negative emotions and stress, and to change destructive thinking patterns. In the study, patients who underwent MBCT showed a significant reduction in symptoms of depression compared to those who continued with standard treatment.

The effect of the therapy was comparable to that of antidepressants, but with an important advantage: MBCT proved to be cost-effective. The cost of the programme was less than £100 per person, making it affordable and potentially saving the UK National Health Service (NHS) money by reducing the burden on health services.

The NHS Talking Therapies programme is the world’s largest public mental health service, helping around 670,000 people each year, almost half of whom suffer from depression. However, around 50 per cent of patients continue to experience symptoms of depression after completing treatment. This confirms that depression for many is a chronic and relapsing condition that requires new approaches.

One of the participants in the study was Mary Ryan, a former doctor and palliative care counsellor who has struggled with severe depression for many years. She shared, ‘For people with severe depression, it’s not just an illness – it’s part of their life. In the past we have often been told that psychological help has been exhausted. This study gives hope that there is a new way that can work.’

The trial involved more than 200 patients from 20 NHS health centres who continued to suffer from depression after receiving standard therapy. One group was offered eight-week group MBCT sessions conducted via video link. Participants learnt how to develop mindfulness skills and cope more effectively with difficult emotions. The second group continued to receive standard treatment. After six months, the first group had a significantly greater reduction in symptoms of depression.

‘We know that for people who have not been helped by standard NHS therapy, other treatment options are often not found. Our study proves that MBCT is an effective and cost-effective solution,’ said Professor Barney Dunn from the University of Exeter. The scientists hope that their findings will lead to widespread adoption of MBCT in the healthcare system.

Professor Clara Strauss from the University of Sussex added: ‘MBCT helps people recognise negative thoughts as just thoughts rather than facts and reduces their emotional impact. This method teaches people to accept difficult experiences and be kinder to themselves, which is particularly important for those who have not been helped by other therapies.’