The experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities attending a mindfulness‐based group intervention

Abstract

Accessible summary Mindfulness helps us to “slow down” and notice how we are thinking and how we are feeling. When we notice our thoughts and our feelings, we can choose to do the things that help us to feel better. We wanted to know what people with learning disabilities thought of mindfulness. Nine people with learning disabilities told us what they thought about mindfulness. We found out that: People enjoyed mindfulness activities and the chance to socialise with other people People showed some understanding of mindfulness People could do the mindfulness activities Abstract BackgroundA growing body of research supports the efficacy of mindfulness‐based intervention programmes (MBPs) for people with intellectual disabilities. Existing literature calls for focus on the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities participating in MBPs. Materials and MethodsThis study explored the experiences of nine adults with intellectual disabilities attending an eight‐week group MBP delivered within the community. Two audio‐recorded group discussions and seven semi‐structured interviews were thematically analysed. ResultsThemes were as follows: participants’ experience of the group as a meaningful and enjoyable activity; opportunities for socialisation, sharing, friendship and support; the significance of participant–facilitator relationships; and how participants understood and experienced the mindfulness exercises and concepts. ConclusionsSome understanding of mindfulness was evident, and participants demonstrated an ability to engage in mindfulness exercises. Findings inform the development of effective MBPs for people with intellectual disabilities.

YOU ARE OKAY. EXPERIENCES OF PARTICIPANTS WITH THE ‘YOU ARE OKAY’ PROGRAM

“…The findings of the this study are in line with the results from the effect study of the program which showed that 'You are Okay' supports children by decreasing their emotional and behavioural problems after participating in the program (Riemersma et al, 2020). The results are also in line with other qualitative research in which participants with mild intellectual disabilities experienced a group intervention as beneficial in for example support and sharing of experiences (Croom, Chadwick, Nicholls & McGarry, 2021;Grové, Reupert & Maybery, 2015;Marston et al, 2016).…”

“Mindfulness Matters”: A pilot study of a Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction group for adults with intellectual disabilities

“…Another therapeutic benefit includes being part of a group. Groups can also facilitate a platform to share experiences and normalise different emotions (Chapman & Mitchell, 2013) and can provide a social opportunity for participants to have a sense of belonging (Croom et al, 2021; Currie et al, 2019). The participants in this study highlighted the sense of belonging and shared purpose of the group as evidenced by their feedback:

coming together to help each otherIt (the group) felt like a safe space

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“…More recent studies showing positive outcomes for mindfulness with individuals with intellectual disabilities include Jones and Finch (2020) and Croom et al (2021). Both studies conducted 8‐week mindfulness‐based therapy groups, each study with 9 participants with mild–moderate intellectual disabilities.…”

“…“I try to notice my thoughts without judging them”, “I am able to focus on the present moment”). Croom et al (2021) used thematic analysis to qualitatively report on the group experience of mindfulness therapy. They found that participants valued the group setting as it offered an opportunity to socialise, share experiences, feel supported and form friendships.…”