Mindfulness-based therapies

28 May 2012

Chris Ruane asked the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 16 May 2012, Official Report, column 154W, on Pain: mental illness, if he will commission further research into the efficacy of mindfulness-based therapies in the treatment of chronic pain and associated depression.

Paul Burstow provided written answer:

"The Department has no plans to specifically commission research into the efficacy of mindfulness-based therapies in the treatment of chronic pain and associated depression. However, the Department's National Institute for Health Research welcomes funding applications for research into any aspect of human health, including mindfulness-based therapies. These applications are subject to peer review and-judged in open competition, with awards being made on the basis of the scientific quality of the proposals made."