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Therapy + Psychology

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy

A structured approach that helps you notice when your attention wanders and practise bringing it back.

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What does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy involve?

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Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, or MBCT, combines mindfulness practice with cognitive therapy. A trained practitioner guides exercises that help you notice thoughts, feelings and body sensations without immediately reacting to them. Practice between sessions helps you try these skills in everyday situations.

For ADHD, the aim is not to keep your mind perfectly still. It is to notice when attention has wandered and practise returning to what you chose to focus on.

What does the evidence say?

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A randomised trial in adults with ADHD found that adding MBCT to usual care improved ADHD symptoms more than usual care alone. This is evidence for that structured approach in adults, not proof that any mindfulness recording treats ADHD.

The Australian ADHD guideline includes mindfulness-based cognitive therapy within the cognitive-behavioural approaches studied in adults. Discuss whether the approach and amount of practice suit your needs, alongside the care you already receive.

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What next?

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This is educational information. It is not a recommendation that this approach is right for you. Always speak with a qualified health professional.

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