Mindfulness-based interventions for diabetes treatment and prevention in South Asian young adults

This thesis addressed gaps in the literature regarding the effects of Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and sought to investigate the acceptability and feasibility of an MBI for a group at high risk for T2D, South Asians. A mixed-methods approach was utilised to produce four studies: 1) a systematic review evaluating the psychological and physiological effects of MBIs applied to T2D; 2) a modelling phase to gauge interest in, and cultural considerations for, a modified MBI for young adult South Asians as a diabetes prevention strategy; 3) an examination of the acceptability and feasibility of a modified MBI; and 4) a comparison of the perceived and objective effects of the modified MBI. The review found evidence for psychological benefits and mixed results for physiological effects. The modelling phase indicated that Mindfulness is acceptable to young South Asians pending minor adaptations. The subsequent feasibility study found the modified MBI to be acceptable and feasible, warranting a future full-scale trial. Across these studies, Mindfulness bore psychological benefits, and to a lesser degree physiological and behavioural benefits. The final study’s triangulation approach (using quantitative and qualitative methods) suggests the intervention has a potential positive impact on stress, anxiety, energy levels, emotional wellbeing, and systolic blood pressure in this sample