Stroke can have a range of physical, psychological, cognitive, and social impacts
that are challenging for survivors. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a
group-based mindfulness intervention integrated into an inpatient rehabilitation program
compared to standard care. A single-center, randomized, controlled trial was conducted
in 93 poststroke patients. The intervention group received 6-weeks of mindfulness-based
cognitive therapy (MBCT) and standard care; the control group received standard care.
Primary outcomes were depression and trait anxiety; secondary outcomes were trait
mindfulness and attention. Participants completed questionnaires at baseline, and
postintervention (6 weeks). Mixed-effect model repeated measures analysis of variance
was conducted between groups and across time. A total of 80 participants (intervention
n = 43; standard care n = 37) were included in the postintervention analysis. There
were no statistically significant differences in the primary outcomes between the
groups over time. An improvement was found, however, on the trait mindfulness observing
subscale in favor of the intervention group. Eight sessions of MBCT integrated into
an inpatient stroke rehabilitation program over 6 weeks was not effective in improving
depression and anxiety compared to standard care. Lack of follow-up and low to moderate
pathological symptoms at baseline may have limited the effectiveness of this intervention.
