Internet-Based Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (iMBCT) for Chronic Tinnitus Patients: a Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating an internet-based Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) program designed to help adults experiencing distress related to chronic tinnitus, a condition that causes perception of sound without an external source and can be associated with anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. This study compares the six-week online MBCT program to a wait-list control group and aims to measure changes in tinnitus distress, anxiety, depression, mindfulness traits, and self-compassion before and after the intervention, as well as at one and six months following treatment. Participants in the study are randomly assigned to either receive the six-week online MBCT program or be placed on a wait-list. The MBCT program consists of six sequential modules delivered through a secure web platform, including guided mindfulness meditations, body scan, mindful movement, and cognitive-behavioral exercises. Participants access audio recordings, written materials, and reflective tasks without therapist guidance. Those in the wait-list group do not receive active intervention during the six-week period but complete all study assessments at the same time points and are offered the program afterward. During the study, participants complete assessments through an online platform at screening, baseline, post-intervention (week 6), one month later, and six months later. Researchers measure tinnitus distress, anxiety, depression symptoms, acceptance of tinnitus, self-compassion, mindfulness, and emotion regulation. The study includes regular monitoring and provides support if participants experience crisis, with referrals to clinical services as needed. Total participation covers initial screening through six months of follow-up.

Internet-Based Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (iMBCT) for Chronic Tinnitus Patients