Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) [15] is a manualized intervention program in an outpatient group format consisting of eight sessions. It combines mindfulness exercises with elements of cognitive therapy and has originally been designed to prevent relapse in depression. As has been shown in randomized controlled trials of two independent research groups, MBCT as an add-on to treatment as usual (TAU) reduces the probability of relapse in patients with three or more previous depressive episodes when compared to TAU alone [16]-[18]. A recently published study [19], however, found that MBCT reduced risk of relapse compared with treatment as usual only for participants who had experienced childhood trauma. In a study using an uncontrolled design, MBCT proved to be helpful in patients with acute depressive symptoms: Significant symptom reductions with large effect sizes have been observed after the intervention [20]. In contrast, the findings of a small randomized controlled study on MBCT in seasonal affective disorder suggest that MBCT is not effective in the prevention of disorder recurrence [21]. Several research groups have adapted the original manual for patients with other psychiatric disorders. According to current reviews, medium effect sizes for MBCT in various disorders have been found [22],[23]. In randomized pilot studies, positive effects of MBCT have been demonstrated in patients with panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder [24] and social phobia [25]. In patients with primary insomnia, symptom reductions have been observed after a treatment combining mindfulness with elements of cognitive-behavioral interventions in uncontrolled studies [26],[27]. So far, however, no randomized controlled study exists concerning the application of MBCT in patients with OCD. This seems amazing, since training of paying attention to the present moment in an open, friendly and non-judgemental way as cultivated through mindfulness practice might be a powerful way for OCD patients to deal with their intrusive, unwanted and often shaming thoughts and urges [28].
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