Using MBCT in a chronic pain setting: a qualitative analysis of participants’ experiences

Abstract

An estimated 20 % of the global population experiences chronic pain, and comorbidity with emotional disorders such as depression is high. While the use of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) as an intervention for recurrent depression is escalating in both popularity and evidence-based success, MBCT is being increasingly utilised in a range of areas including chronic pain management. The current study was designed to conceptualise chronic pain patients’ perceived benefits of an MBCT programme. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 chronic pain patients who had participated in MBCT group training within a public hospital pain unit between 8 and 50 months previously. The recorded interviews were transcribed and interpreted using thematic analysis to identify key themes in participants’ comments. Four overarching themes were extracted: patients’ belief in the programme, patients’ perception of control, patients’ struggles and patients’ acceptance of the presence of pain. Participants who perceived benefits from the MBCT programme were most motivated to continue mindfulness practice. Identifying patients’ perspectives on their pain and the benefits of ongoing mindfulness practice following participation in an MBCT group intervention provided opportunity to discuss ways to best assist patients in developing and consolidating their practice. Clinical and research implications are discussed.