Can cognitive behavioural group therapy help people living with a rare disease?

People living with a rare disease (PLWRD) often experience significant psychological burden, that results from a number of factors including physical pain, reduced income and increased medical expenses, and reduced social interactions. In addition, chronic physical conditions, as in most rare diseases, often occur alongside depression which can further exacerbate other mental health effects of the disease itself. In order to address this issue, a study was recently published in Intractable & Rare Diseases Research that investigates the effects of a mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural group therapy program for patients with a rare disease and deep depression.

The program described in the article consisted of three monthly sessions, each lasting 2 hours. Overseen by a clinical psychologist, it was designed to reduce psychological stress and improve quality of life in People Living With a Rare Disorder. (©Orphanews international 2025.10.06)