A Randomized Controlled Trial of Mindfulness‐Based Cognitive Therapy for Treating Tinnitus

TLDR

The study compared the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy versus relaxation training, following an initial psychoeducation session, in reducing tinnitus‑related distress. Participants received a single psychoeducation session and were then randomized to six weekly mindfulness or relaxation training sessions. Psychoeducation reduced negative emotions, rumination, and tinnitus‑related distress, gains that were maintained or enhanced by mindfulness training but eroded in the relaxation condition. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

We conducted a randomized clinical trial to examine the relative effectiveness of two psychological interventions for treating tinnitus. People with tinnitus were initially offered a single session of psychoeducation about tinnitus, followed 2 months later by six weekly sessions of either mindfulness or relaxation training. Results indicated benefits from psychoeducation in reducing negative emotions, rumination and psychological difficulties of living with tinnitus. These effects were maintained or enhanced by mindfulness training that also emphasized acceptance, although they were eroded in the relaxation condition over the follow‐up. Mediating processes are discussed, and suggestions for refining clinical interventions for this population are offered. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Key Practitioner Message The present results suggest that mindfulness training might constitute a useful addition to psychoeducation for interventions targeting the psychological consequences of tinnitus.