Experiences of Mindfulness Training in Living with Rheumatic Disease: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: This study examined the experiences of mindfulness training for five adults living with rheumatic disease. Method: Focus group data were used to explore the experience and impact of mindfulness training in participants aged between 46 and 69 years diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia or rheumatoid arthritis. All participants had completed an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme 6 months prior to the study. Findings: Interpretative phenomenological analysis produced two themes: ‘responding to pain’ and ‘psychological wellbeing’. All participants spoke similarly and with enthusiasm, reflecting the strength of the impact of mindfulness upon the daily lives of these individuals. Methodological limitations are considered along with clinical applications and suggestions for future research. Conclusion: The findings from this study reinforce the outcomes of previous research and indicate that mindfulness has the potential to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals living with rheumatic disease.