Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the course come from?

The course we teach is based on the MBSR course developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, as well as the Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) course, developed by Zindel Segal, Mark Williams and John Teasdale at the Universities of Cambridge and Toronto. The two approaches are very closely related. The MBSR course has been used for over thirty years to help with anxiety, chronic health problems, and general well-being. The MBCT course was developed more recently specifically for people with a history of depression, to help prevent relapse.

Is the MBSR course suitable for me if I have mental health issues?

The MBSR course is designed for people who want to find ways of working with stress more effectively and for increasing overall well-being and awareness. If you have mental health problems such as current depression, or are in a period of major life change, the course may not be right for you at this time. We will ask participants to complete a short confidential questionnaire and have an informal telephone chat prior to starting. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to discuss your circumstances.

I am concerned that I may not be flexible enough for the 'movement' part of the MBSR course?

The movement during the course is very gentle. Participants are encouraged to work within their physical limitations, whatever these may be.

Does the MBSR course have a religious affiliation?

No, mindfulness can be learned by anyone, no matter what their religious (or non-religious) affiliation.

Can I join the MBSR course part-way through?

New participants cannot join part-way through an 8-week course. The course is experiential in nature and it is important that the group is consistent for the 8-week period.

I am not sure if I have time for the MBSR 'homework'?

We appreciate everyone has busy lives but you will not get as much out of the course if you are not committed to the daily homework (approx 45 minutes) that we invite you to undertake during the 8 weeks. Please talk to us if you have concerns about this part of the course.

I am concerned about being in a group situation.

It is not unusual to be concerned about working in a group. We try to create a safe and confidential environment for everyone to explore and share their experiences. There is no pressure to share in the group if you do not wish to and we invite you to notice and work within your own safety zone.

I cannot make all the current course dates. Can I still attend or will there be other dates?

We do appreciate that it can sometimes be difficult to make it to all eight sessions. If it is not possible to attend all eight we recommend that you try not to miss more than one. We offer regular courses. Please feel free to talk to us about your circumstances.

What is the evidence that Mindfulness is helpful?

Over the past few decades, randomised-controlled trials of MBSR and MBCT have shown that mindfulness-based approaches are effective in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and addiction issues, as well as improving people's relationships, sharpening attention and aiding self-regulation and sleep. MBCT is recommended by NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) for those who have had several episodes of depression, as it has been shown to significantly reduce the likelihood of future relapse. 

Mindfulness-based approaches have also been shown to empower and reduce symptom perception among patients with physical health problems, including chronic pain, heart disease, cancer, gastrointestinal disorders and high blood pressure, as well as improving immune system functioning. 

What do you offer once the 8-week course has finished?

Mindfulness Sussex are committed to offering ongoing space and support for course participants to practise mindfulness. We run monthly group practice sessions for those that have completed an MBSR course with us, and day retreats for those who wish to deepen or reconnect with their practice having completed an 8-week course.

How can I find out more about Mindfulness?

Here are some further resources that may be of interest:

Be Mindful (Mental Health Foundation Campaign)

The Mindful Manifesto (Book by Dr Jonty Heaversedge and Ed Halliwell)

Bangor University Centre For Mindfulness Research and Practice