The effects of Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) on mental health and well-being among a non-clinical sample

Abstract

BackgroundMental problems are highly common among the general population. Mind-body interventions were found to be highly effective in treating them. The current study assessed the effect of Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) meditation on psychological parameters in a general population sample. MethodsNinety-seven Participants enrolled in a 28-day workshop and completed a set of self-administered measures before and after the workshop. Outcome measures included Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI–II), Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomology-Self Report (QIDS-SR16), Outcome Questionnaire OQ-45.2, The Quality of Life Inventory (QOLI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form (STAI), State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI) (State), Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), Eating Attitudes Test (EAT). ResultsBDI scale decreased significantly before and after the intervention. QIDS scale improved significantly from T1 to T2 (p < 0.001). Outcome questionnaire decreased significantly at T2. Quality of life scores improved significantly between T1 and T2 (p < 0.001). Anxiety state and trait scores decreased significantly after the intervention (p < 0.001) All the subscales of anger decreased significantly after the intervention (p < 0.001).Subjective happiness improved significantly (p < 0.001). ConclusionsIBSR meditation improved various psychological scales among a general population sample. Further controlled studies should evaluate the clinical implementation of IBSR among the general population.