Mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Par : Fjorback LO, Arendt M, Ornbøl E, Fink P, Walach H.

Revue systématique et Méta-analyse sur MBSR et amélioration de la santé mentale et MBCT et prévention de la rechute dépressive

Article en anglais, payant, disponible sur le site PUBMED :
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21534932

publié dans Acta Psychiatr Scand en  2011

Abstract

Fjorback LO, Arendt M, Ørnbøl E, Fink P, Walach H. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy - a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

OBJECTIVE:

To systematically review the evidence for MBSR and MBCT.

METHOD:

Systematic searches of Medline, PsycInfo and Embase were performed in October 2010. MBSR, MBCT and Mindfulness Meditation were key words. Only randomized controlled trials (RCT) using the standard MBSR/MBCT programme with a minimum of 33 participants were included.

RESULTS:

The search produced 72 articles, of which 21 were included. MBSR improved mental health in 11 studies compared to wait list control or treatment as usual (TAU) and was as efficacious as active control group in three studies. MBCT reduced the risk of depressive relapse in two studies compared to TAU and was equally efficacious to TAU or an active control group in two studies. Overall, studies showed medium effect sizes. Among other limitations are lack of active control group and long-term follow-up in several studies.

CONCLUSION:

Evidence supports that MBSR improves mental health and MBCT prevents depressive relapse. Future RCTs should apply optimal design including active treatment for comparison, properly trained instructors and at least one-year follow-up. Future research should primarily tackle the question of whether mindfulness itself is a decisive ingredient by controlling against other active control conditions or true treatments.