The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for Relapse Prevention in Major Depressive Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) has gained recognition as a promising intervention for preventing relapse in individuals with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of MBCT in reducing the risk of depressive relapse and recurrence. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of MBCT compared to control conditions (e.g., treatment as usual, active treatments) in preventing depressive relapse over follow-up periods. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as intervention duration, frequency of sessions, participant characteristics (e.g., history of previous depressive episodes, severity of depression), and adherence to mindfulness practice, to elucidate factors influencing the effectiveness of MBCT for relapse prevention in MDD.
Share and Cite
Article Metrics
References
- Kuyken, W., et al. (2015). Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy compared with maintenance antidepressant treatment in the prevention of depressive relapse or recurrence (PREVENT): A randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, 386(9988), 63-73.
- Segal, Z. V., et al. (2010). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for residual depressive symptoms and relapse prophylaxis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78(5), 615-625.
- Piet, J., & Hougaard, E. (2011). The effect of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for prevention of relapse in recurrent major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(6), 1032-1040.
- Godfrin, K. A., & van Heeringen, C. (2010). The effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on recurrence of depressive episodes, mental health and quality of life: A randomized controlled study. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 48(8), 738-746.
- Williams, J. M. G., et al. (2000). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for preventing relapse in recurrent depression: A randomized dismantling trial. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 68(4), 615-623.
- Eisendrath, S. J., et al. (2008). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for treatment-resistant depression: A pilot study. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 77(5), 319-320.