Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is an evidence-based therapy for depression blends parts of CBT with Mindfulness Meditation. Traditional CBT often looks at changing your thinking, but in MBCT the aim is to develop a better understanding of how your mind works and a different relationship with your thoughts.
Skills you can learn during Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy:
- To recognise patterns/mental habits and realise that there are alternatives.
- To stand back a little from distressing thoughts and feelings.
- To recognise early warning signs and take helpful action when you spot them.
- To put less effort into trying to “fix” things and strive for results.
- To be kinder and gentler towards yourself.
MBCT has been tested in research trials and has been found to be effective in treating depression, and is included in guidelines for the treatment of depression by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
MBCT is typically delivered as a group with eight weekly sessions, each lasting around two hours. Homework assignments and daily mindfulness practices are an important part of the program, helping participants to integrate mindfulness into their daily lives.
