A new study shows that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) can help people with depression who have not improved after usual treatments. The research, published in Lancet Psychiatry, suggests MBCT could be an effective and affordable option for those still struggling.
The study was led by the University of Surrey and involved over 200 patients across 20 NHS sites. All participants had already tried NHS Talking Therapies but continued to experience depression.
Half of the group took part in eight weekly MBCT sessions online, while the other half continued their usual care.
MBCT combines mindfulness meditation with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. It teaches people how to better handle negative thoughts and stressful feelings. The study found that those who did MBCT had greater improvements in their depression symptoms compared to those who did not.
The benefits were similar to those seen with antidepressant medication. Additionally, MBCT was cost-effective, costing less than £100 per person and potentially saving money for the NHS by reducing the need for other treatments.
The NHS Talking Therapies program treats about 670,000 people yearly, nearly half of whom suffer from depression. However, about 50% of these patients still have symptoms after treatment, leaving many without further support.
Mary Ryan, a retired doctor and patient adviser who has suffered from depression for many years, said the study gives hope to many people: “For those with severe depression, it often feels like there are no more options. This research shows there is something new that can help.”
Experts explain that MBCT helps people notice when they have negative thoughts and teaches them to be kinder to themselves.
This stops the cycle of harmful thinking that often worsens depression. The therapy can work even when other treatments have not.
Professor Barbara Barrett from King’s College London highlighted that MBCT not only improves patients’ health but also saves NHS money.
NIHR’s Professor Kevin Munro praised the study for showing how mindfulness therapy could quickly improve quality of life for many.
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