Changes of psychological and biological stress parameters in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders participating in a mindfulness-based group therapy

Abstract This study investigates changes in stress parameters in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders participating in mindfulness-based group therapy (MBGT). N = 45 participants were randomised to MBGT or Treatment as Usual over four weeks. Before and after each session, psychological and biological stress markers by self-rating scales and cortisol saliva samples were assessed in the active group (n = 22). Oxytocin was assessed before and after the first and last sessions. Results indicated significant reductions in general stress, symptom-related distress and cortisol levels. Oxytocin showed increases during the first session and decreases during the last session. Exploratory analyses showed correlations between psychological and biological stress markers, and between stress reduction and changes in self-reported negative symptoms. MBGT may provide stress relief in patients with SSD with potential associations with negative symptoms. The study did not include a session-specific control group. Further studies with larger samples and corresponding control conditions are warranted to test causality.