The effects of mindfulness-based techniques on self-rumination, cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression among patients with major depression: a nursing perspective.
Mohamed Hussein Ramadan Atta, Ayman Mohamed El-ashry, Marwa Abd El-gawad Mousa
Journal of research in nursing : JRN August 1, 2024 DOI: 10.1177/17449871241252011
Summary
Mindfulness-based techniques (MBTs) significantly enhance emotional regulation in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). In a study of 120 participants, those receiving MBTs (n = 60) showed notable improvements in mindful attention awareness and cognitive strategies compared to a control group (n = 60). Specifically, the MBT group experienced increased scores on the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale and reduced self-rumination. These findings suggest that incorporating MBTs into nursing interventions could provide essential tools for better patient care in managing MDD symptoms effectively.
Abstract
Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) often struggle with adaptive strategies like self-reflection and cognitive reappraisal, relying instead on maladaptive ones like self-rumination and emotional suppression. Mindfulness-based techniques (MBTs) have been identified as a promising complementary psychological intervention for this population. To evaluate the effects of MBTs on mindful attention awareness, self-rumination, self-reflection, cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression in patients with MDD between patients who receive MBTs and those who do not. This quasi-experimental research was carried out at the Psychiatric Outpatient Clinics. A representative sample of 120 patients with MDD were randomly recruited to either a study group (n = 60) or a control group (n = 60). The Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), The Rumination-Reflection Questionnaire (RRQ) and The Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) were utilised to collect data. After participation in MBTs, the study group had significantly greater improvements in the mean scores of MAAS, RRQ, Cognitive Reappraisal and Expressive Suppression compared to the control group (p < 0.001 each). The study recommends developing and implementing training programmes for nurses to equip them with the skills and knowledge to effectively deliver MBTs as part of patient care. Conducting longitudinal studies is necessary to assess the sustainability of these improvements.