Efficacy of a mindfulness intervention with people with intellectual disabilities: findings of a controlled study

Background. People with intellectual disabilities are a vulnerable population with regard to developing mental health problems. To date, however, there has been little research on mindfulness-based interventions for people with intellectual disabilities. Aim of the study is the development and evaluation of a mindfulness intervention for people with intellectual disabilities. Methods. The study employed a control trial approach involving an intervention group and an active control group. A group-based mindfulness intervention was implemented for the intervention group and the active control group worked with music. The study included 21 people with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities. Participants in both groups took part in 8-week interventions. The outcome variables were anxiety and depression, aggression, worry and tension. All variables were assessed at pre- and post-interview. Wellbeing was assessed at the beginning and at the end of every session. Results. There was a significant decrease in depression and anxiety over time in the mindfulness group, whereas in the active control group a reduction in aggression and tension was found. Further, a constant high wellbeing was found in the mindfulness group. In the control group, there was a descriptive increase in wellbeing. Conclusions. Multimodal interventions for the treatment of mental health issues in people with intellectual disabilities should include mindfulness interventions. The inclusion of more active components and music in mindfulness interventions seems to be worthwhile.