Mindfulness Based Intervention for Psychosis (MBIp): A qualitative study

Psychological interventions for psychosis are mandatory for an integral attention of persons with psychosis. Mindfulness Based Interventions (MBI) are psychological procedures which share the basic notion that, in order to... [ view full abstract ]

Psychological interventions for psychosis are mandatory for an integral attention of persons with psychosis. Mindfulness Based Interventions (MBI) are psychological procedures which share the basic notion that, in order to achieve adequate psychological functioning, individuals should change the way in which they relate to their symptoms instead of eliminating them. Mindfulness has shown a promising impact on the wellbeing and psychological flexibility in the treatment of psychosis. The sensation of self-control and empowerment, improvement of self-esteem and a better psychological functioning are among the benefits reported by MBIp participants’. Nevertheless no studies of MBIp have been conducted in Latin America.

The scope of this work is to present a pilot study of the application of MBIp in a group of person with a first episode of psychosis In Chile. Ten participants were interviewed after 8 weeks of MBIp. A phenomenological interpretation of the participants’ narrative was used. The findings were categorised into the followings areas: benefits and difficulties of the practice, methodology, mechanisms of change, daily life implications.

These outcomes would allow understanding the role that MBIp may have in the treatment of persons with psychosis. Especially the applications of MBIp in the context of a first episode of schizophrenia and recovery issues were highlighted. Additionally the differences and similarities between this study and previous studies conducted in other socio cultural context were discussed.