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Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction in Pre-symptomatic Genetic Frontotemporal Dementia: A Pilot Study
Jackie M Poos1, Esther van den Berg1, Janne M Papma1
1Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Center Erasmus MC, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Frontiers in Psychiatry
|May 16, 2022
Summary
An online mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course significantly reduced anxiety and depression symptoms in individuals at-risk for frontotemporal dementia (FTD). This pilot study suggests MBSR is a feasible intervention for this population.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Individuals at-risk for frontotemporal dementia (FTD), including mutation carriers and 50% at-risk family members, often experience anxiety and depression due to disease uncertainty.
- The psychological burden associated with presymptomatic FTD necessitates accessible interventions to manage distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of an online mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course in mitigating anxiety and depression symptoms.
- To assess the impact of MBSR on psychological distress, coping styles, quality of life, and mindfulness skills in a presymptomatic FTD population.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 7 known FTD mutation carriers and 6 at-risk individuals who completed an 8-week online MBSR course.
- Standardized questionnaires (HADS, SCL-90-R, UCL, SF-36, FFMQ) were administered pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at a 2-month follow-up.
- Statistical analyses included repeated measures ANOVA/Friedman's test and calculation of the reliability change index (RCI).
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in anxiety symptoms (HADS-A) were observed post-intervention and at 2-month follow-up, with 54-62% showing clinically significant improvement.
- A significant decrease in depression symptoms (HADS-D) was noted at 2-month follow-up, with 23% demonstrating clinically significant improvement.
- Additional positive changes included shifts in coping strategies, reduced psychological distress, and improved physical functioning.
Conclusions:
- This exploratory pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of online MBSR for reducing anxiety and depression in presymptomatic FTD mutation carriers and at-risk individuals.
- The intervention was perceived as beneficial and applicable to daily life by participants.
- A randomized controlled trial is warranted to confirm these preliminary findings.
