An SMS-assisted mindfulness-based intervention for relapse prevention in depression

INTERVENTION: 1. During inpatient psychiatric treatment: Manualized group session introducing three mindfulness‐based exercises (mindful breathing, mindful walking, mindfulness of the body). Study participants should attend the group at least once. 2. After discharge (t1) for participants allocated to intervention group: Assistance of mindfulness practice at home, using positive reinforcement via the mobile phone SMS‐technology and weekly reminders (until 4‐month follow‐up, t2) CONDITION: Depressive symptoms, relapse prevention ; Mental and Behavioural Disorders PRIMARY OUTCOME: Feasibility and acceptability of the study design and procedures:; 1. Number of patients recruited (at study intake, t0) and randomized (at hospital discharge, t1), drop‐out rates until follow up (four months after discharge, t2); 2. Homework compliance (questionnaire at t2) ; 3. Use of the SMS‐assistance during the four months after hospital discharge (objective measure); 4. Satisfaction with the interventions (questionnaires at timepoints: t1, t2) SECONDARY OUTCOME: Usability of the selected questionnaires (measuring homework compliance, depressive symptoms etc), assessed at all measurement‐points (t0‐t2) INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. Age: 18 to 75 years 2. Symptoms of depression during the current illness episode 3. Mobile phone