[Video-Based Online Metta-Meditation Therapy for Depression: A Pilot Trial Evaluating the Acceptability and Feasibility].
Verhaltenstherapie – April 01, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
Video-based therapy using Metta meditation shows promising potential for treating depression, with eight participants reporting high acceptance levels. The program facilitated a strong therapeutic relationship and effectively taught meditation techniques, creating a focused environment. Participants expressed good feasibility of the intervention, highlighting its practicality during the Covid-19 pandemic. This approach not only fosters kindness towards oneself and others but also suggests that video-based interventions can be a valuable tool in mental health care, especially for those struggling with depressive disorders.
Abstract
In the course of the Covid-19 pandemic, it has become clear what relevance non-contact psychotherapeutic online interventions in mental health care could possibly have in the future. The present pilot study aims to test whether a Metta-based group program is also an acceptable and feasible treatment when conducted as video-based intervention. Metta meditations aim at showing unconditional benevolence and kindness to oneself and to other people. Eight patients with depressive disorder participated in a video-based implementation of the Metta-based group program. Quality of the therapeutic relationship, the implementation of methods as well as the acceptance of the video-based therapy on the part of the participants were surveyed as target variables. Data indicated good feasibility in terms of a sustainable therapeutic relationship, the possibility of teaching meditation techniques, and the establishment of a concentrated working atmosphere. Videobased therapy met with good acceptance among the participants. Potential indications for its clinical effectiveness are evident. Teaching Metta meditation in a group program for the treatment of depression can be practicably implemented in a video-based therapy and meets with good acceptance by the patients. Further studies on moderators of acceptance and efficacy of video-based therapy are needed.