Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Prevents Depression Relapse: Individual Patient Meta-Analysis

Can mindfulness therapy replace antidepressants for preventing relapse?

Yes, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is equally effective as antidepressants for preventing depression relapse. Individual patient data meta-analysis shows comparable efficacy. Key advantages:

• Equal to antidepressants - comparable relapse prevention rates
• Non-pharmacological - no medication side effects
• Skill-building approach - teaches lasting coping strategies
• Recurrent depression - effective for preventing relapse in those with history

A groundbreaking individual patient data meta-analysis examined MBCT compared with usual care and antidepressants for preventing relapse in recurrent depression. This comprehensive analysis represents a significant public health development, showing MBCT can serve as an equally efficacious nonpharmacological intervention for relapse prevention.

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A Randomized Controlled Trial of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder in Undergraduate Students: Dose-Response Effect, Inflammatory Markers and BDNF

Introduction

This randomized controlled trial examined the dose-response effect of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for college students with major depressive disorder (MDD), investigating both clinical outcomes and biological markers including inflammatory cytokines and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

Study Design and Participants

This was a 2-month double-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) with registration number ChiCTR2100044309. The study recruited 60 undergraduate students with first episode and untreated MDD meeting DSM-5 diagnostic criteria from universities in Kunming, Yunnan, China.

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