Effects of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on a Group of Postgraduate Students: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Background:

The literature shows promising results regarding the efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), suggesting that these programs foster the development of intrapersonal competencies and help promote the self-care of professionals.

Materials and Methods:

This exploratory study evaluates the effects of an intensive six-day MBCT program on a group of health professionals and social workers who are taking an international postgraduate course in third-generation cognitive behavioral therapies—mindfulness. Twenty-six people participated in this study. The pre- and post-intervention measurements used were: Perceived Stress Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory, and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire. Due to the small sample size, Wilcoxon's signed-rank tests were used to evaluate differences before and after the MBCT program.

Results:

Results indicated statistically significant differences before (T1) and after (T2) the MBCT program at the global level of self-compassion (Z = −1.969, p < 0.05) and anxiety symptoms (Z = 2.042, p < 0.05), with a modest effect size, and of depression symptoms (Z = 3.350, p = 0.001) and mindfulness (Z = −2.832, p = 0.005), with a moderate effect size. This indicates significant declines in the symptoms of depression and anxiety and increases in mindfulness and self-compassion.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest improvements in the capacity to observe and accept internal experiences and reactions, not reacting to them. MBCT training may have benefits for psychological well-being and applicability in training programs for professionals to development intrapersonal competencies.