Paper Title
ADVANCING THE STUDY OF MINDFULNESS-BASED INTERVENTION (MBI) IN CHRONIC CONDITIONS: FEASIBILITY STUDY WITH PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM FUNCTIONAL SEIZURES (PNES)

Abstract
- Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES), also known as Functional Seizures (FS), present as sudden episodes affecting motor, sensory, autonomic, or cognitive functions, yet occur without detectable epileptiform activity. Individuals with FS often present with psychiatric comorbidities and histories of psychological trauma. Given the complex interaction between psychological factors and seizure manifestation, treatment primarily relies on psychotherapeutic approaches. Among these, mindfulness practice has demonstrated efficacy in reducing stress, a key trigger for FS episodes, and enhancing interoceptive awareness, potentially helping individuals recognize bodily cues preceding seizures. This study presents the experience of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) developed through a multidisciplinary collaboration between the Neurology, Psychology, and Psychiatry Units of Pisa University Hospital (AOUP, Italy). Fifteen FS patients participated in a tailored version of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program, incorporating guided mindfulness practices, psychoeducation, and group discussions. Sessions were offered both in-person and online according to participants’ preferences. Feasibility and psychological effects were assessed through pre- and post-intervention measures, including evaluations of sleep quality, mood, anxiety, stress, interoceptive awareness, dissociation, and meteorosensitivity. Preliminary findings indicate good feasibility and acceptability of the intervention. Participants reported improvements in emotional regulation, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality, alongside a trend toward reduced seizure frequency. Given the exploratory nature of the study, results will be discussed in terms of both quantitative trends and qualitative observations. This feasibility study introduces a clinical intervention model aimed at providing structured support for FS patients within neurological services. Further clinical trials and larger samples are needed to confirm these findings