Positively mindful: a mixed method feasibility study of mindfulness meditation for people living with HIV in the UK

Introduction: Mindfulness meditation (MM) may be an effective self-management strategy for people living with HIV (PLWH); no such research has yet been conducted in the UK. The aim was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), a course in MM, for PLWH in the UK.
Methods: Positively Mindful was the first UK study to explore MM in a sample of PLWH. This was a mixed method feasibility study of MBSR for PLWH. Participants were randomised to either MBSR (n=16) or a waiting list control (n=6). Feasibility was assessed using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and by analysing
study management data. Outcomes included perceived stress, blood pressure, pulse, salivary cortisol, quality of life, symptomatology, affect, and medication adherence. Data was analysed statistically and thematically. Results: Of 41 PLWH assessed for eligibility, 22 were recruited Referrals were low but the consent rate was high (76%). Both patients and staff identified an unmet need for psychosocial care options for PLWH; MM may address this need. Data demonstrated that methodological optimisations should be made in any future follow-up study, particularly with respect to recruitment and adherence. Effect sizes for perceived stress (d=0.29), social wellbeing (d=0.3), and cognitive functioning (d=0.3) suggested further attention may be warranted.
Conclusions: MBSR could be feasible, acceptable, and potentially effective for PLWH in the UK; however, strategies for optimising recruitment and adherence should be employed in future research.