15-minute Mindfulness Meditation (Somatic Tracking) for Tinnitus
UCL researchers are looking for people to take part in a research study
Researchers at University College London (UCL) are exploring the impact of 15-minute remote mindfulness meditation, specifically somatic tracking, on managing tinnitus distress. Mindfulness programmes, including meditation, have emerged as promising alternatives to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for tinnitus, demonstrating effectiveness in reducing distress and enhancing well-being. The intervention focuses on:
- Neuroplasticity-Based Techniques: Fostering new neural connections for lasting change.
- Reinterpreting Tinnitus: Learning to view tinnitus through a lens of safety and calm.
- Grounding in Mindfulness: Techniques to reduce distress and improve well-being.
This research is approved by UCL Ethics (Project ID: 21425/001). The study measures psychological and tinnitus distress, attitudes, and annoyance. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
- Intervention Group: Complete 2 weeks of daily mindfulness meditation guided by Dr. Florian Vogt, a clinical psychologist specialising in tinnitus treatment at UCLH.
- Control Group: Complete measures over a 2-week wait period. Afterward, participants will receive access to the meditation recording for personal use.
Recruitment will close at the end of February. While the study link will no longer be active for new participants after this, ongoing participants can still complete their sessions.
How can I help?
Participation in this study is entirely virtual and involves:
- A 10-15 minute online questionnaire at the start.
- Either 2 weeks of daily guided meditation (15 minutes per session) or a 2-week wait period, depending on group allocation.
- A 10-15 minute online questionnaire at the end of the 2-week study period.
- A 3-minute feedback survey to complete the study.
Who can help?
The study is open to adults (18+) experiencing tinnitus-related distress who are not currently undergoing tinnitus treatment.
Will I get paid?
As a token of appreciation, participants who complete the study will be entered into a lottery to win one of three £100 prizes. Winners will be notified between March and April 2025.
Who can I contact?
If you have any questions, please contact Shyn Phua (shyn.phua.21@ucl.ac.uk).