therapy

• Mindfulness

  Designed to help patients focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the past or the future. Helps people deal with psychological difficulties by putting them in control of their own mind.
• Mindfulness

  • Involves paying attention in 3 ways: 1) on purpose, 2) in the present moment and 3) non-judgementally
• Mindfulness

  About observing emotions and behaviours rather than being defined by them
• Mindfulness

  1. Involves meditation and mindful breathing

  2. Patients gradually understand that they are just their thoughts and that there is no need to automatically believe them or react to them
• Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)


  Takes the form of 8 weekly classes, plus an all-day session held at around week 6. Includes guided meditations as homework for participants to practise at home once a day, six days a week, throughout the course.
• Over time, the patient becomes in control of their thoughts


  This acceptance gives clarity to the patient as they are able to exert their free will and focus on 'the good life' instead of dwelling on their sadness and distress
• Mindfulness is not a treatment for depression, it is only used to prevent relapse
• effective

  mindfulness as effective as antidepressants at preventing a depression relapse

  NeuroImaging of those practising mindfulness shows increased activity in prefrontal cortex showing greater self control
• ethics

  if therapy is ineffective, it doesn’t cause physical harm and no side effects

  Patient will give valid consent and have right to withdraw