[Video-Based Online Metta-Meditation Therapy for Depression: A Pilot Trial Evaluating the Acceptability and Feasibility].

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.

Study at a glance

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.