The effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on happiness of women with HIV in Iran

This study evaluated the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in enhancing happiness among women living with HIV in Ahvaz, Iran. A randomized controlled trial assigned 92 eligible women to either an MBCT group (<i>n</i> = 46) or a control group (<i>n</i> = 46). The MBCT group participated in eight 90 min sessions, while the control group received no intervention. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, the Oxford Happiness Inventory, and Beck Depression Inventory-II. Statistical analyses included chi-square, <i>t</i>-tests, Mann-Whitney U, and repeated measures ANOVA (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Post-intervention, the MBCT group showed a significant increase in happiness (30.9 ± 7.1 to 40.5 ± 4.9) compared to minimal change in controls (32.8 ± 7.1 to 33.9 ± 7.0, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Subscale improvements included self-esteem (2.1 ± 1.4 to 3.3 ± 1.0), mood (8.8 ± 2.9 to 11.0 ± 2.5), self-efficacy (3.4 ± 1.7 to 4.8 ± 1.7), health perception (6.8 ± 2.1 to 9.2 ± 1.6), and life satisfaction (11.7 ± 3.4 to 14.7 ± 2.5) (all <i>p</i> < 0.01). Depression scores decreased significantly (16.6 ± 4.9 to 11.9 ± 3.1, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Findings indicate MBCT effectively enhances happiness and related psychological factors in women with HIV, supporting its role in improving mental well-being.<b>Trial registration:</b> Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: IRCT20231004059614N1.