Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial Exploring Implementation of the Compassionate Mindful rEsilience pRogram for People With pUlmonaRY Fibrosis: The MERcURY Study

Background: Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive, irreversible fibrotic lung disease that requires long-term treatment. People with a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis are known to have reduced health-related quality of life, furthermore, it is common for such individuals to experience anxiety and depression. Therefore, interventions to support these individuals are essential to improve their psychological health. Mindfulness is increasing in popularity but retention in these programmes can be challenging. Condensed programmes have great potential but require statistical and individual evaluation. The Compassionate Mindful Resilience Program is a 4-week course that teaches simple, effective, evidence-based practices, skills and techniques.

Methods: This study aims to establish the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of the Compassionate Mindful Resilience Program in improving the psychosocial well-being of people with a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis. The trial will be conducted to test procedures, outcomes and validated tools; estimate recruitment and attrition rates; and calculate the sample size required for a future definitive multi-centre randomised controlled trial. The study will also utilise qualitative methods to explore the acceptability of the intervention to the study population. In keeping with CONSORT guidelines. The SPIRIT guidelines and checklist will be utilised to report the study.

Discussion: This study will implement a four-week mindfulness intervention and its utility for people with Pulmonary Fibrosis. The investigators aim to increase equitable access to evidence-based mindfulness practices with the potential to improve the lives of people impacted by this condition. If the study demonstrates the practicability of delivering the online 4-week Compassionate Mindful Resilience program with adequate recruitment, the investigators will be able to determine the feasibility of progression to a randomised controlled clinical trial to increase equitable access to evidence-based mindfulness practices with the potential to improve the lives of people impacted by Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Inclusion criteria

• have a confirmed diagnosis of PF
• be aged 18 years or older
• reside in the UK or Ireland
• have the capacity to provide informed consent
• demonstrate a commitment to attend all four CMR sessions (demonstrated through discussion with the mindfulness teacher during screening)
• have access to an internet-enabled device.

Exclusion criteria

• No diagnosis of PF
• under 18 years old
• live outside of UK or Ireland
• no capacity to provide informed consent
• not willing to attend all four CMR sessions
• no access to an internet-enabled device.