Feasibility and acceptability of a virtual mindfulness intervention for Black adults with PTSD and depression: Randomized controlled trial.

Summary

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) shows potential in reducing posttraumatic stress and depression among Black adults. In a pilot study with 46 participants (89.3% women), the 8-week virtual MBCT intervention had a feasibility rate of 70%, but only 54% completed it compared to 90% in the waitlist control group. Participants expressed high acceptability for the program, though perceived barriers to psychological treatment were significant. Enhancing engagement strategies is crucial for future implementations to improve coping skills and health outcomes.

Abstract

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) offers promise as a group-based intervention to alleviate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression symptoms in traumatized Black adults. Given the high level of barriers that exist for low-income Black adults, virtual delivery of MBCT may be helpful. This pilot randomized controlled trial assessed feasibility and acceptability of an adapted 8-week virtual MBCT group intervention for Black adults screening positive for PTSD and depression. Forty-six participants (89.3% women) recruited from an urban safety net hospital were randomized to MBCT or waitlist control (WLC). Overall feasibility was fair (70%); however, completion rates were higher for WLC than MBCT (90% vs. 54%). Group acceptability was high across quantitative and qualitative measures for study completers. Perceived barriers to psychological treatment were high (>9). While showing potential via improved coping skills and positive health changes, this intervention's success hinges on mitigating engagement barriers for future delivery; additional studies are warranted.

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