A randomized controlled trial of mindfulness-based intervention on individuals with physical disabilities in China

Individuals with physical disabilities (PD) face many quality of life challenges. In this study, a randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the impact of mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on the psychological morbidity (indexed by depression and anxiety), emotional well-being (indexed by mindfulness and self-compassion), and health-related quality of life (QOL) among individuals with PD in China. A total of 512 participants with PD were randomly allocated to either the MBI group or the control group. Participants in the experimental group received an eight-week MBI in four sequential stages with different mindfulness meditation exercises. Results showed that participants who underwent MBI exhibited significantly fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety, elevated levels of mindfulness and self-compassion, and enhanced health-related QOL compared to those who did not receive the treatment after intervention. The study yielded promising results for using MBI in promoting the well-being of individuals with PD in China. Suggestions for future research are also highlighted.