Meditation Awareness Training for the Treatment of Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Background: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic pain disorder that frequently leads to poor quality of life. The need for more effective FMS treatments has prompted empirical investigations into the applications of mindfulness for treating the condition. However, studies have predominantly focused on first-generation mindfulness-based interventions (FG-MBIs). To date, a randomised controlled trial (RCT) assessing the effectiveness of a second-generation mindfulness-based intervention (SG-MBI) for treating FMS has not been undertaken. SG-MBIs are distinct from FG-MBIs because they are overtly spiritual in nature and employ (i) a greater range of (normally secularised) meditative/spiritual techniques, (ii) ethics as a key component of the taught programme, and (iii) an instructor training programme that typically requires several years of supervised mindfulness practice.

Aims: To evaluate the effectiveness of Meditation Awareness Training (MAT) - an SG-MBI - for treating FMS.

Method: Adults with FMS will receive MAT or an active control intervention known as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Groups. Assessments will be performed at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and follow-up phases.

Inclusion criteria

• Current diagnosis of fibromyalgia syndrome
• Aged between 18 and 65 years
• Able to read and write using the English language
• Available to complete an eight-week intervention and six-month follow-up assessment

Exclusion criteria

• Currently undergoing formal psychotherapy
• Changes in psychopharmacology type or dosage one-month prior to intervention
• Currently practicing mindfulness or meditation