Randomized controlled trial of mindfulness cognitive therapy combined with medication in the treatment of mild to moderate depressive disorders

Objective: To investigate the impact of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) on the psychological defense mechanisms and clinical outcomes of patients with mild to moderate depressive disorders. Methods: A single-center randomized controlled trial was conducted. 149 patients with mild to moderate depressive disorders were divided into an MBCT group and a health education group. Both groups received 8 weeks of intervention in addition to standard medical treatment. Assessments were carried out at baseline, as well as at 2nd, 4th, and 8th weeks during treatment. Measures included the Five-Factor Mindfulness Scale, Defense Mechanisms Questionnaire, Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), and Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA). Treatment effects were analyzed using generalized linear models, in accordance with the principles of intention-based therapy. Results: Over time, there were significant differences between the two groups…