Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Program for People With Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that requires continuous self-management and may negatively affect psychological well-being, quality of life, and glycemic control. Psychological distress and difficulties in coping with diabetes may interfere with self-care behaviors and disease management.

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of an integrated mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral program among adults with diabetes mellitus in Damascus, Syria. The intervention was designed to address psychological and behavioral factors that may affect diabetes self-management. It combined cognitive behavioral techniques, including psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and coping strategies, with mindfulness exercises, relaxation techniques, emotional regulation, and home practice.

A total of 40 participants completed the study, with 20 participants allocated to the intervention group and 20 to the control group. Eligible adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. Participants in the intervention group received 14 weekly counseling sessions over approximately three months, with each session lasting approximately 90 minutes. The control group received routine diabetes care without an additional psychological intervention.

Quality of life was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF), which evaluates physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental domains. Glycemic control was assessed using glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measured before and after the intervention. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used during screening to identify participants with mild to moderate depressive symptoms and determine eligibility; it was not used as an outcome measure.

The study aimed to determine whether the integrated mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral program could improve quality of life and glycemic control compared with routine diabetes care

Inclusion criteria

• Adults aged 18-70 years.
• Diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• Baseline HbA1c level greater than 6.5%.
• Mild to moderate depressive symptoms according to the Beck Depression - -Inventory (BDI).
• Ability to understand the study procedures and intervention instructions.
• Willingness to participate in all intervention sessions.
• Ability and willingness to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Severe psychiatric disorders requiring specialized psychiatric care.
• Acute medical conditions that could prevent participation in the intervention.
• Receiving regular psychotherapy or another similar psychological intervention.
• Inability to understand the intervention instructions.