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The Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for Recurrent Depression: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) has emerged as a promising intervention for preventing relapse and recurrence of depression, combining cognitive therapy techniques with mindfulness practices to target cognitive reactivity and promote self-regulation skills. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of MBCT in reducing depressive relapse/recurrence and improving overall well-being in individuals with a history of recurrent depression. Through an extensive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of MBCT compared to control conditions (e.g., treatment as usual, maintenance antidepressant medication, placebo) in preventing depressive relapse/recurrence and reducing residual depressive symptoms. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, frequency of sessions, therapist involvement, and participant characteristics (e.g., history of depression, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of MBCT for recurrent depression.
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References
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