Mindfulness as effective as CBT

For treatment of depression and anxiety, group mindfulness is as effective as individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a Swedish study suggested.                                                              

The multi-centric study is the first to compare the efficacy of group mindfulness treatment with individual CBT among patients with anxiety and depression in primary healthcare setup.

Approximately 215 patients with 10 individuals per group were randomized to receive either individual CBT or group mindfulness treatment with private training programme. The patients were asked to maintain dairy to record their exercises schedule that lasted 8 weeks. Self-reported survey questionnaire was employed to assess the severity of anxiety and depression symptoms, before and after treatment.

Significant decrease in anxiety symptoms in both groups, with no marked differences in terms of treatment efficacy was observed between two groups. If conducted by certified instructors, group mindfulness is as effective as individual CBT for treatment of depression and anxiety, the researchers noted. 

Music therapy improve behavioral problems in kids

A recent Irish study found that music therapy reduced behavioral and emotional problems including depression in children and adolescents. The study was jointly conducted by Queen’s University and Northern Ireland music therapy trust.                                                      

The study analyzed 251 children and young adults with behavioral, emotional and developmental problems. Among them, 128 were assigned to conventional treatment while the rest were on music therapy plus usual care.

When compared to kids not treated with music therapy, significantly improved self-esteem and depression symptoms were observed in music therapy received kids. Music therapy improved interactive and communicative skills, the largest-ever study reported.

Previously published studies have suggested long-term, sustained benefits of music therapy. Further studies are to be conducted to compare the cost-effectiveness of music therapy with other treatments.