A new approach to treating depression
Researchers at Bangor University have uncovered strong evidence that Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) plays a major role not only in preventing the recurrence of depression, but also in enhancing well-being more broadly. In 2004, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) agreed that the therapy was a cost-effective depression prevention programme and recommended its approach.
Initially led by Professor Mark Williams, Bangor University’s Centre for Mindfulness Research and Practice is now at the forefront of creating UK good standards in the field and is delivering MBCT courses to thousands of members of the public and professionals within the NHS and other contexts.
MBCT is being used to treat those with chronic fatigue, residual depression, bi-polar disorder, anxiety, and chronic physical conditions and illnesses. Centre staff have published a self-help guide, developed an online toolkit and has supported, trained and mentored over 200 individuals in 73 NHS geographical regions to implement MBCT.
“Mindfulness is an integrative mind-body based approach that helps people to change how they think and feel about their experiences, especially stressful experiences…Mindfulness-based interventions can and do work.” Chris Ruane MP, House of Commons Debate