An investigation into the health benefits of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for people living with a range of chronic physical illnesses in New Zealand.
Study Goal
To evaluate the efficacy of Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for managing symptoms and coping with chronic illness in a New Zealand context.
Results Summary
Statistically significant improvements were observed in nearly all measured physical and psychological health categories, with benefits sustained at 6-month follow-up. MBSR was concluded as an effective adjunctive therapy for chronic illness management.
Population
People with chronic health problems in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
Effective Dosage
8-week training programme (specific frequency not detailed).
Duration
8 weeks, with follow-up at 6 months.
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) | increase | symptoms and coping with illness | people with chronic health problems in an Aotearoa/New Zealand context | - | demonstrated health benefits | #1 |
Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) | increase | Physical and psychological health and well-being | Twenty-nine participants | - | Statistically significant improvements were demonstrated | #2 |
Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) | decrease | morbidity associated with chronic illness | chronic illness sufferers in New Zealand | - | An economical and effective adjunctive therapy for decreasing morbidity | #3 |
AIM: To establish the efficacy of Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for people with chronic health problems in managing symptoms and coping with their illness in an Aotearoa/New Zealand context. METHOD: Twenty-nine participants completed a wait-list control study. Physical and psychological health and well-being were measured before, after and 6 months after the 8-week training programme using a variety of internationally recognised screening tools. RESULTS: Statistically significant improvements were demonstrated in almost all categories measured. CONCLUSION: MBSR demonstrated health benefits for chronic illness sufferers. An economical and effective adjunctive therapy for decreasing morbidity associated with chronic illness in New Zealand, MBSR provides both clinicians and patients with an additional option for the better management of chronic illness.