Understanding the Experiences of How Mindfulness is Used by People with Cystic Fibrosis: Barriers and Enablers

Abstract

Objectives: Mindfulness practices are increasingly being recognised as beneficial in supporting health, wellbeing, and psychological functioning. There is currently limited evidence of how mindfulness is used within a population of individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). In order to effectively inform the development of future psychological mindfulness-based interventions for this population, it is imperative to first understand how individuals with CF are currently engaging with mindfulness. Method: Internet-mediated research (IMR) was used to explore attitudes, beliefs, and experiences regarding the use of mindfulness practices across a CF population. IMR allowed for a natural, unobtrusive method of data collection that involved the collection of publicly available posts from two global online CF forums. Results: A variety of formal and informal mindfulness practices were positively experienced by the CF community, with beneficial impacts upon emotional and psychological wellbeing, and physical health. The data highlighted a clear interest in proactive mindfulness practice, whilst also exploring some of the associated challenges with certain practices. Conclusions: Proactive psychological support that considers the use of mindfulness and self-care practices may form a particularly valuable tool in supporting the quality of life for present and future generations of people with CF. Increased awareness and education regarding the use of different formal and informal mindfulness practices in CF care would be beneficial in enabling people to make more informed choices.