Online MBCT for Adjustment Disorder During COVID-19: Efficacy, Mechanisms, and RCT

This study tested a 4-week, internet-based Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) program designed to help people experiencing adjustment disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adjustment disorder is a stress-related condition that can cause anxiety, depression, and difficulty coping after major life changes. We compared the online MBCT program to two other groups: an internet-based relaxation training program and a wait-list group. A total of 301 adults from Poland took part. We measured symptoms of adjustment disorder, depression, and anxiety before the program, right after, and one month later. Results showed that the online MBCT program led to greater improvements in depression and anxiety than the other two groups. People in MBCT also developed more self-compassion and were better able to distance themselves from unhelpful thoughts, which helped reduce their symptoms. Benefits lasted at least one month after the program ended. These findings suggest that a brief, self-guided, online mindfulness program can be an effective, accessible way to support mental health during stressful times such as a pandemic.