The experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities attending a mindfulness-based group intervention

Background: A growing body of research supports the efficacy of mindfulness-based intervention programmes (MBPs) for people with intellectual disabilities. Existing literature calls for focus on the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities participating in MBPs. Materials and Methods: This study explored the experiences of nine adults with intellectual disabilities attending an eight-week group MBP delivered within the community. Two audio-recorded group discussions and seven semi-structured interviews were thematically analysed. Results: Themes were as follows: participants' experience of the group as a meaningful and enjoyable activity; opportunities for socialisation, sharing, friendship and support; the significance of participant-facilitator relationships; and how participants understood and experienced the mindfulness exercises and concepts. Conclusions: Some understanding of mindfulness was evident, and participants demonstrated an ability to engage in mindfulness exercises. Findings inform the development of effective MBPs for people with intellectual disabilities.