Qualitative Research Results Conclusions CSO CZH/4/831 A feasibility study for a community based trial of Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP) versus Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for Depression: Qualitative Study Methods Background Much of the burden of depression relates to its recurrent nature. Guidelines support MBCT as a gold standard intervention but NHS availability is limited The WRAP peer-delivered approach could provide an alternative but currently lacks evidence. Neither have been fully tested against a comparable intervention. Objective To conduct a feasibility study leading to a trial of the effectiveness of WRAP versus MBCT for recurrent depression. To explore how WRAP & MBCT were received, and any perceived impacts. Design Setting Sample Feasibility RCT Community-sourced recruitment Random allocation to intervention groups 8 week intervention 3 month follow-up Baseline: 18 in-depth interviews with WRAP & MBCT participants. Follow-up: In-depth interviews with participants (n=15) & facilitators (n=3) Withdrawal interviews Community settings in: Edinburgh Glasgow Inverness Highly experienced MBCT teachers and WRAP facilitators delivering one group of each intervention in each location. Inclusion Criteria Aged 18+ 3+episodes of depression Currently in remission Exclusion Criteria Recent experience of MBCT/WRAP. Psychotic symptoms. At risk of self-harm Undertaking talking therapy. Qualitative Research Results Conclusions Community-based recruitment and randomisation of self- selecting participants was highly efficient and effective WRAP & MBCT groups well- received Positive impact on mental health; reports of reductions in medication and/or contact with health care staff Group delivery very important Withdrawal from groups often related to practical issues Few participants reported no WRAP & MBCT benefits A full scale community-based trial can be efficiently run with minor modifications. ...when I felt my mood going down I’ve been able to practice Mindfulness techniques and that’s been able to lift my mood (MBCT participant, Edinburgh) WRAP & MBCT sessions were well run WRAP & MBCT useful and worthwhile approaches with major positive impacts on participants’ mental well-being Those with previous experience of other treatments or talking therapies preferred WRAP & MBCT (though both could be used in conjunction with medication) The group environment was crucial: the support and advice of those with similar lived experience made WRAP & MBCT particularly powerful WRAP is far more practical… I had 6 months psychotherapy and didn't feel very different. I had 8 weeks WRAP and feel like a new person… that says something! (WRAP participant, Glasgow) …it’s quite remarkable […] you knew that everyone in the room knew what you felt like… and so if you talked about a particular experience you didn’t have to explain it very much… you could be quite honest, that was very refreshing (WRAP participant, Inverness) Contact: Andy MacGregor or Susan McConville andy.macgregor@scotcen.org.uk susan.mcconville@scotcen.org.uk