Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy v. group psychoeducation for people with generalised anxiety disorder: Randomised controlled trial

• Published in: British journal of psychiatry 2016-07, Vol.209 (1), p.68-75
• Main Authors: Wong, Samuel Yeung Shan, Yip, Benjamin Hon Kei, Mak, Winnie Wing Sze, Mercer, Stewart, Cheung, Eliza Yee Lai, Ling, Candy Yuet Man, Lui, Wacy Wai Sze, Tang, Wai Kwong, Lo, Herman Hay Ming, Wu, Justin Che Yuen, Lee, Tatia Mei Chun, Gao, Ting, Griffiths, Sian M., Chan, Peter Hoi Sing, Ma, Helen Shuk Wah
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Anxiety Disorders - therapy; Cognitive Therapy - methods; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Mindfulness - methods; Outcome Assessment (Health Care); Patient Education as Topic - methods; Psychotherapy, Group - methods
• ISSN: 0007-1250; 1472-1465
• DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.115.166124

Research suggests that an 8-week mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) course may be effective for generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). To compare changes in anxiety levels among participants with GAD randomly assigned to MBCT, cognitive-behavioural therapy-based psychoeducation and usual care. In total, 182 participants with GAD were recruited (trial registration number: CUHK_CCT00267) and assigned to the three groups and followed for 5 months after baseline assessment with the two intervention groups followed for an additional 6 months. Primary outcomes were anxiety and worry levels. Linear mixed models demonstrated significant group × time interaction (F(4,148) = 5.10, P = 0.001) effects for decreased anxiety for both the intervention groups relative to usual care. Significant group × time interaction effects were observed for worry and depressive symptoms and mental health-related quality of life for the psychoeducation group only. These results suggest that both of the interventions appear to be superior to usual care for the reduction of anxiety symptoms.