What is Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)?

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MBCT is a skills-based programme that combines elements of cognitive therapy with mindfulness meditation in an eight week group format. 

 

The programme was initially designed with the aim of reducing the risk of recurring depression but MBCT has also been shown to be effective in other physical and emotional conditions such as anxiety, chronic fatigue, pain, stress and panic.  

 

The key element in MBCT is to help individuals recognise the early warning signs of depression or stress and to disengage from automated unskillful thinking and habits by having a different relationship to their thoughts, feelings and body sensations.

 

MBCT is recommended by the UK’s National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) as it has been shown to be as effective as antidepressants in preventing recurrence of depression. 

What we learn during an MBCT Course?

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  • To step out of auto-pilot
  • To see things as they really are
  • To accept yourself as you are
  • To respond skilfully when faced with difficult situations
  • To be kind and compassionate to yourself
  • Increased awareness of the relationship between your body and mind
  • Increased awareness of your thoughts and feelings and how they can affect your behaviour
  • Increased awareness of stress triggers and how they manifest in the body
  • Increased ability to step out of unhelpful habitual patterns of behaviour.

Is MBCT suitable for everyone?

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Like everything else, MBCT is not suitable for everyone.

 

When you register for a course you will be assessed to ensure the course is suitable for you or the timing is right.

 

The course is not suitable for people who are currently experiencing very severe or acute psychological or physical problems such as  acute depression, psychosis, recent grief or issues with substance misuse.