Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms: A randomized waitlist control trial.

摘要

A randomized waitlist-controlled trial was conducted to investigate the impact of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program on physical symptom severity, quality of life, symptoms of stress, and mood in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Patients diagnosed with IBS using the Rome III criteria were randomized to either an immediate MBSR program (n=16) or waitlist (n=21). The intervention consisted of a weekly meditation group lasting 1.5 hours for 8 weeks plus a 3 hour retreat. Patients completed questionnaires pre- and post-intervention or waiting period, and 6-month follow up. Preliminary analyses revealed the treatment group had fewer overall symptoms of stress, decreased sympathetic arousal, depression scores, and interference with activity post-treatment. Improvements were observed in physical symptom severity, quality of life, and mood for both conditions. These results provide preliminary evidence for the feasibility and efficacy of a mindfulness intervention for improving symptoms of stress in patients experiencing IBS symptoms.