Perspectives of healthcare professionals and patients on the application of mindfulness in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

OBJECTIVE: To explore the views of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients towards mindfulness for individuals with COPD. METHODS: A qualitative study design informed by and analyzed using deductive thematic analysis. Twenty HCPs, with at least one year's clinical experience in COPD management and 19 individuals with moderate to severe COPD participated in semi-structured interviews. RESULTS: Analysis revealed seven themes. 1. Mindfulness is difficult to articulate and separate from relaxation. 2. Mindfulness has a role in disease management. 3. Mindfulness therapy should be optional. 4. Preferred techniques include; breathing meditation, music and body scan. 5. Mindfulness should be delivered by knowledgeable, enthusiastic and compassionate trainers. 6. Preferred mode of delivery is shorter sessions delivered alongside pulmonary rehabilitation, with refresher courses 7. Efficacy should be assessed using psychological outcome measures and qualitative methodologies. CONCLUSIONS: Mindfulness appears to be an attractive therapy for individuals with COPD. An understanding of the perspectives of HCPs and patients should inform the delivery of such programs. PRACTICAL IMPLICATION: Individuals with COPD were comfortable using breathing to reduce anxiety. Stigma and negative preconceptions were considered barriers to participation. Short sessions delivered by experienced trainers were preferred. A combination of methodologies should be used to examine effectiveness.