A Mindfulness-Based Brain-Computer Interface to Augment Mandala Coloring for Depression: Protocol for a Single-Case...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and Mental Health Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Psychology and Behavioral Science

Background:

• Mindfulness practice is recognized for its benefits in mental well-being and preventing depression relapse.
• Technology-mediated interventions can support sustained mindfulness practice, but interactive systems like brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are under-explored.
• There is a need for innovative approaches to support individuals recovering from depression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present Anima, an interactive mindfulness-based technology utilizing a brain-computer interface (BCI).
• To augment mandala coloring with a generative color palette driven by real-time mindfulness states.
• To outline a methodology for evaluating the effectiveness of this BCI-based mindfulness training.

Main Methods:

• Recruitment of adult participants with a history of depression, recently completed treatment.
• Deployment of the Anima system (tablets and mental activity headband) for home use.
• Data collection via questionnaires (mindfulness, depression, well-being, user experience) and semistructured interviews, analyzed using visual and statistical single-case methods.

Main Results:

• Anticipated to provide insights into deploying and evaluating novel BCIs for mental health mindfulness training.
• Expected to validate the effectiveness of the Anima training protocol for improving mental well-being in individuals with a history of depression.
• Participants will be recruited through the National Health Service.

Conclusions:

• The evidence generated will aid in designing and evaluating BCIs and mindfulness technologies for mental well-being.
• Findings will inform the development of supportive services for individuals recovering from depression.
• This research contributes to the growing field of digital mental health interventions.