Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy


People with severe and recurrent depression could benefit from a new form of therapy that combines ancient forms of meditation with modern cognitive behaviour therapy, early-stage research by Oxford University psychologists suggests.

The results of a small-scale randomized trial of the approach, called mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), in currently depressed patients are published in the journal Behaviour Research and Therapy.

Twenty eight people currently suffering from depression, having also had previous episodes of depression and thoughts of suicide, were randomly assigned into two groups. One received MBCT in addition to treatment as usual, while the other just received treatment as usual. Treatment with MBCT reduced the number of patients with major depression, while depression remained the same in the control group.

MBCT brings together modern cognitive behavior therapy with the ancient practice of mindfulness meditation. Participants attend classes that include meditation learning, education about depression, and advice on how participants can best look after themselves when their feelings threaten to overwhelm them. One way that the treatment benefits people is helping them to live more in the moment, rather than be caught up in upsetting memories from the past or worries about the future. More.....
So, as George's father on Seinfeld would say, Serenity Now! Check out this video clip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5513mXmQbw4

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is intentionally paying attention to the present moment while putting aside our preconceived ideas, expectations, and judgments. It is being in connection with the here and now. Over the past 30 years there has been a buildup of evidence-based research using mindfulness practice to work with difficult medical and mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, addiction, insomnia, chronic pain, immune function, cancer, trauma, and more. Check this out: Mindfulness Blog by Dr. Goldstein: "The practice of mindfulness teaches us a different way to relate to our thoughts, feelings, and emotions as they arise. It is about learning to approach and acknowledge whatever is happening in the present moment, setting aside our lenses of judgment and just being with whatever is there, rather than avoiding it or needing to fix it. It’s the mind’s attempt to avoid and fix things in this moment that fuels the negative mood. So, if sadness is there, instead of...
Read more

The Stigma of Mental Illness

Image
Many people suffering from mental illness feel that society does not want them or understand them. As mental health professionals, we are here to educate families and society about mental illess. At some point in our lives most people are touched by mental illness with a family member, friend or even ourselves. May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Spread the news of healing and support for those suffering from mental illness.
Read more