Effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy against suicidal ideation in patients with depression : A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) can effectively prevent relapse of major depression, but there is currently insufficient evidence for efficacy against suicidal ideation during depressive episodes. We thus conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing MBCT to treatment as usual (TAU) for suppression of suicidal ideation in patients with current depression.

Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, CNKI, and Wan Fang databases for RCTs published in English or Chinese between January 1, 2000, and August 30, 2021. Pooled data were compared between MBCT and TAU groups using a random-effects model.

Findings: Seven RCTs with a total of 479 participants were included. Suicidal ideation and general depression scores were significantly improved following MBCT compared to TAU [Suicidal Ideation: standard mean difference (SMD) = −0.33, 95 % CI, −0.56 to −0.10; Depression: SMD = −0.96, 95%CI, −1.54 to −0.38].

Interpretation: Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is an effective intervention for reducing depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation in depressed patients.

Trial registration: This meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered at PROSPERO https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ (CRD42021285016).