A review of the evidence for mindfulness-based interventions, compassion-based interventions (CBIs), and loving-kindness meditation (LKM) finds that while mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy are well-supported by many trials, only seven randomized controlled trials have been completed on CBIs and LKM. In those trials, CBIs were effective for psychotic disorders, affective disorders with psychotic features, major depressive disorder, eating disorders, and patients with recent suicide attempts; LKM was effective for chronic pain; and a combination helped borderline personality disorder. Nonrandomized studies suggest CBIs and LKM may also help depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and PTSD, but more research is needed to confirm these effects and determine their role as standalone or adjunct treatments.
A pilot test of a Metta-based group program delivered via video showed that teaching loving-kindness meditation to people with depression is feasible and well accepted. Eight patients with depressive disorder participated in the video-based intervention. Measures of therapeutic relationship quality, method implementation, and acceptance indicated that a sustainable therapeutic relationship could be established, meditation techniques could be taught, and a concentrated working atmosphere was possible. Participants accepted the video-based therapy well, and there were preliminary signs of clinical effectiveness. Further research on what moderates acceptance and effectiveness of video-based therapy is needed.