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In a study published in April in The Lancet medical Journal, patients who were given antidepressants to prevent relapse after a major depressive episode were equally as likely to relapse as those who were weaned off the medication and participated in a Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) series of treatments. MBCT is a form of therapy that was largely influenced by the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn who developed Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) that he introduced in the University of Massachusetts Medical School where he helped develop their Center for Mindfulness. Similar to MBSR, MBCT is an 8 week program where a 2 hour class is held each week to introduce new concepts and practices. The bulk of the work is done at home where participants practice guided mindfulness meditation and day to day awareness techniques that develop their mental toolbox. In the article that summarized the study, comments from a participant give a hint as to how this can be effective.
Mindfulness gives me a set of skills which I use to keep well in the long term,” Nigel Reed, a participant in the study, said in a statement. “Rather than relying on the continuing use of antidepressants, mindfulness puts me in charge, allowing me to take control of my own future, to spot when I am at risk and to make the changes I need to stay well.
Attention and awareness when used correctly can spot mental danger from a distance, giving us more time to use our skills to avoid problems. It is an empowering thing to experience.
Here is the actual study abstract. Or, if you prefer here is the just-tell-me-what-it-means version.
