The feasibility and acceptability of an online mind-body wellness program for patients with primary biliary...

Persons with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) experience significantly higher rates of mental distress and impaired health related quality of life (HrQoL) than the general population. Given limited evidence, but a high need, our primary aim was to assess feasibility and acceptability of a 12-week, online, mind-body wellness program in people with PBC.

This was a single-group, sequential mixed-methods, pre-post feasibility, and acceptability study. Core program components included follow-along movement, meditation and breathwork videos, and cognitive behavioural therapy informed activities. This was supplemented by weekly phone check-ins. Feasibility was assessed by recruitment, adherence, and retention. The pre-post exploratory efficacy assessment included surveys for fatigue, perceived stress, anxiety, depression, HrQoL, and resilience. A qualitative descriptive approach with semi-structured interviews evaluated study experiences.

Thirty-two participants were recruited within 30 days and 29 (91%) were retained to end-of-study. Of these, 25 (86%) adhered to carrying out the mind-body practice at least 2-3 days per week. Feedback supported acceptability (satisfaction score 90%). Significant improvements were observed in fatigue (13%, p = 0.004), anxiety (30%, p = 0.005), depression (28%, p = 0.004), and five PBC-40 domains (itch, fatigue, cognitive, emotional, general symptoms). Qualitative interviews revealed improved stress management, better coping, and a more positive mindset. Fatigue and self-sabotaging thoughts were cited as barriers to participation.

These findings suggest that a 12-week online mind-body intervention is feasible and acceptable in patients with PBC. After iterative refinement, a randomized controlled trial will be designed using this feedback.