Mindfulness is being able to focus on the present moment; being more aware of our thoughts and feelings; living in the here and now and learning to appreciate the present. Mindfulness involves acceptance too – we become aware of our thoughts and feelings, but learn not to judge them as the right or wrong feelings to have. Being aware of the present can help us to respond better to life’s challenges, rather than to react in a knee jerk fashion to pressure.
Mindfulness can be used as a treatment for mental health problems, such as depression, but it can also be practised even if you are well. MBCT or Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy which includes breathing techniques, meditation, stretching and visualisation techniques, can help dissolve feelings of fear, dread and anxiety and combat recurrent depression, or simply make us view life more positively. More specifically, activity in the pre-frontal cortex – the area of the brain normally associated with positive emotions – tends to be lower in those suffering from depression. People who meditate regularly, for example, and are therefore more ‘mindful’, tend to have a larger pre-frontal cortex and have arguably a more positive outlook.
There is increasing evidence to show that mindfulness can help those suffering from generalised anxiety disorders and other mental health disorders, and that it can sometimes be a more effective treatment than anti-depressants. Indeed research has shown that it can reduce relapses of depression by up to 44% (Oxford Mindfulness Centre). Mindfulness should be treated as a useful tool to good mental health, and not necessarily as a complete cure. Once an individual learns the techniques of mindfulness which work for them, it can be practised easily on a daily basis for the rest of one’s life and be a useful way to cope with modern stresses and maintain mental well-being.
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, observing thoughts and feelings without judgment. MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) combines traditional mindfulness techniques with elements of cognitive behavioural therapy to help individuals manage conditions like depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders more effectively.
Mindfulness and MBCT can benefit anyone, whether they are experiencing mental health difficulties or simply seeking to improve their emotional well-being. They are particularly helpful for individuals with recurrent depression, anxiety disorders, and those experiencing high levels of stress.
Yes. A growing body of clinical research supports the effectiveness of mindfulness and MBCT. Studies have shown that MBCT can significantly reduce the risk of depression relapse and improve emotional regulation, focus, and resilience to stress.
Most structured MBCT programmes last eight weeks, with noticeable improvements often reported by the end of the course. However, many people begin to experience benefits, such as increased calmness and reduced anxiety, within the first few weeks of regular practice.
While you can learn and practise mindfulness independently, MBCT is most effective when guided by a qualified mental health professional, especially when treating clinical conditions. A structured programme ensures correct technique and offers support in applying mindfulness to real-life challenges.
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