A Pilot Study of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Programme in Patients Suffering from Atopic Dermatitis

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) have several potential stressors including the symptoms of the disease itself, the stigmatization due to their appearance, and emotional and psychological strain. Psychological factors and stress can trigger and exacerbate the symptoms of skin diseases and there is evidence that stress has a relevant clinical effect on the function of skin cells in vivo. Our objective was to evaluate in a pilot study the feasibility, acceptance, and effectiveness of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme in AD patients in a clinical setting. Methods: 10 patients took part in an 8-week MBSR programme, which included, e.g., mindful and conscious awareness of the body and bodywork, and seated meditation. We assessed sociodemographics and disease related variables with standardized measures at predefined time points including Score of Atopic Dermatitis, Patient Oriented Eczema Measure, Dermatology Life Quality Index, Perceived Stress Questionnaire, Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI), and others. Participants also gave qualitative feedback regarding the effects of the intervention. Results: The mean age was 53.10 years (SD = 15.04), seven patients were female, and disease duration was 36.6 years (SD = 25.5). Calculating pre-post effect sizes (Cohen’s d), the FMI indicated significant improvement in the “presence” and “acceptance” subscales. There was also tendency for less stress. This was confirmed by the qualitative statements of the participants. Conclusions: The MBSR programme is feasible and acceptable for AD patients. Considering the long disease history and the severity of disease burden, the effects of this intervention seem promising as an adjunct to conventional treatments for patients with AD.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions in People with Psychotic Disorders: An Overview of the State of Research Concerning Efficacy and Implications for Clinical Practice

“…Current research confirms the efficacy of MBI for a variety of mental disorders and also in some often comorbid somatic diseases, including stress-related skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis [Offenbächer et al, 2021], chronic pain disorders [Hilton et al, 2017], and breast cancer [Zhang et al, 2016]. MBI for the treatment of mental disorders is now specified in the guidelines of the United Kingdom (NICE -UK National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) and Canada (CANMAT -Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments) [National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2014; Parikh et al, 2016].…”

Assessment of Frontal Hemispherical Lateralization in Plaque Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis

“…Regarding the potential therapeutic benefits, the findings presented in this study significantly contribute to the understanding of the psychological aspects and therapeutic approaches associated with dermatological and inflammatory skin diseases. Many psychological interventions have been tested for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, including brief dynamic psychotherapy, cognitive–behavioral therapy, habit-reversal behavioral therapy, a stress management program, and structured educational programs, with prosperous results [ 16 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 ]. However, most of these approaches are not personalized and mostly empirical.…”

Mindfulness in atopic dermatitis

“…16 I druga istraživanja su pokazala pozitivan učinak MF-a u liječenju psorijaze 17,18 , ali i drugih dermatoloških bolesti. 4,6,19…”