A Review of Mindfulness and Communication Sciences and Disorders Students

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this review article was to define mindfulness and discuss its use with college students, students majoring in clinical programs, and communication sciences and disorders (CSD) students in particular. Method Literature was reviewed regarding mindfulness, stress, perfectionism, and self-compassion. Furthermore, how these issues relate to college students in general, students in clinically related majors, and specifically to CSD students was discussed. Research using a mindfulness practice with CSD students was reviewed and two methods of incorporating a mindfulness practice into an ongoing CSD curriculum (i.e., as part of a graduate course on counseling and as part of an undergraduate course on the graduate application process) were discussed. Results A short mindfulness practice has been found to decrease the perceived and biological stress levels of CSD undergraduate and graduate students. Participation in this practice has also been found to help CSD students ameliorate negative aspects of perfectionism and to increase self-compassion. Use of the mindfulness practice within the curriculum was accepted by students. Conclusion The use of a short mindfulness practice can successfully be incorporated into an ongoing CSD curriculum and appears to be an effective method of improving students' overall well-being.