Mindfulness Research Articles

Effectiveness of an Internet-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Intervention for Reducing Psychological Distress in Health Care Professionals: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Psychological distress is prevalent among health care professionals and can lead to poor-quality patient care. Internet-based acceptance and commitment therapy (iACT) is a promising intervention for improving mental health due to its low cost and easy access. However, there is limited evidence of its effectiveness in reducing health care professionals' psychological distress. This study aims to examine the effects of iACT on psychological distress (stress, anxiety, and depression) among health care professionals in China. From October 2022 to February 2023, a total of 108 health care professionals were recruited via WeChat and randomized into a 6-week iACT intervention program with therapist support (n=54) or waitlist control group (n=54). The intervention included 21 self-guided sessions combining teaching videos, mindfulness practices, and journal writing, followed by 7 live conferences to share experiences and discuss questions, all conducted via WeChat. Primary outcomes (stress, anxiety, and depression) and secondary outcomes (burnout and psychological flexibility) were collected using the Sojump platform, the most popular web-based survey platform in China. Generalized estimating equations were used to compare the outcomes between groups and assess the effects of group, time, and group-by-time interaction. Subgroup and sensitive analyses were performed to test the robustness of our findings across various groups. Among the 108 health care professionals, 68 (63%) completed the follow-up assessment at week 10, including 35 (64.8%) in the iACT group and 33 (61.1%) in the waitlist control group. Of the 54 participants in the iACT group, all attended at least 2 sessions, and 25 attended all 28 sessions. On average, participants attended 20 (71%) sessions. The iACT group showed significant improvement in the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales-21 total score (d=0.82, 95% CI 0.39-1.26), and the effects were sustained for 4 weeks after the intervention (d=1.08, 95% CI 0.57-1.59). Compared to the control group, the iACT group showed significantly lower scores in burnout at week 6 (d=1.42, 95% CI 0.95-1.89) and week 10 (d=1.52, 95% CI 0.98-2.06). The iACT group showed significantly higher psychological flexibility at week 6 (d=1.23, 95% CI 0.77-1.69) and week 10 (d=1.15, 95% CI 0.64-1.66). The iACT effectively decreased health care professionals' psychological distress and burnout and improved their psychological flexibility. Our findings provide implications and guidance for the development and broad implementation of iACT in health care settings to improve the mental health of health care professionals. Chinese Clinical Trial Register ChiCTR2400093584; https://tinyurl.com/38werwsk.

Cognitive appraisals linking dispositional mindfulness to athletes' emotions: a multi-states theory approach

PurposeThe aim of the study was to examine the relationship between dispositional mindfulness, cognitive appraisals, emotions, and psychobiosocial experiences in athletes within the framework of multi-states (MuSt) theory.MethodA convenience sample of 334 Italian athletes (188 men and 146 women), aged 18–48 years (M = 24.77, SD = 7.26) and involved in individual or team sports, were recruited for the study. Athletes were assessed individually or in small groups before regular practice sessions.ResultsPath analysis showed positive indirect effects via challenge appraisal from mindful awareness and refocusing to excitement, happiness, and psychobiosocial experiences, and negative indirect effects to anxiety and dejection. Positive indirect effects were observed via threat appraisal from mindful awareness and refocusing to happiness and psychobiosocial experiences, and negative indirect effects to anxiety, dejection, and anger.ConclusionsThe results highlight the impact of mindful awareness, refocusing, and cognitive appraisals on athletes' emotional and psychobiosocial experiences. Overall findings support MuSt theoretical foundation and suggest that mindfulness may help athletes view challenges as opportunities to express their potential by triggering pleasant emotions and functional psychobiosocial experiences. From an applied perspective, the findings support the use of mindfulness practice in the development of programs to promote athletes' challenge appraisals, pleasant and functional emotional experiences, which may enhance their performance.

Examining the Effects of Brief Mindfulness on Psychophysiological Responses and Performance in Self-Competitive Tasks

Mindfulness practice has been recognized as an effective method for reducing stress, enhancing self-awareness, and improving overall well-being, influencing various cognitive processes such as attention and self-control. While extensive research has focused on long-term mindfulness programs, recent years have seen the emergence of brief mindfulness practices. This study aims to investigate the effects of brief mindfulness on electrophysiological responses, and performance in a self-competitive context. A total of 52 participants were divided into two groups for the experiment. They were randomly assigned to one of two experimental conditions: a brief mindfulness practice (n = 29) or a control intervention (n = 23), each lasting 10 min. Initially, participants completed a cognitive task (Tower of Hanoi—ToH), followed by their respective intervention. Participants then performed the ToH task again, with encouragement to exceed their previous performance. Measures were taken for performance metrics and psychophysiological responses—including electrodermal response (EDA) and cardiovascular parameters. The results indicated that a brief mindfulness significantly enhanced performance (p < 0.05), increased self-efficacy (including self-confidence and perceived task importance) prior to the ToH task, and reduced the perceived difficulty of the task upon completion. Moreover, an increase in EDA was found in the brief mindfulness group. However, no significant changes in the measured cardiovascular responses were observed. These findings suggest that brief mindfulness can effectively improve cognitive task performance by enhancing self-efficacy and reshaping task perception.

Examining the Use of Virtual Reality to Support Mindfulness Skills Practice in Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Mixed Methods Study.

Virtual reality (VR) has been proposed as a technology to support mindfulness practice through promoting increased engagement and presence. The proposed benefits of this technology have been largely unexamined with clinical populations. Further research is required to understand its clinical potential and utility in improving and managing mental health symptoms. This study aims to investigate the proximal impacts of a single, brief, VR-supported mindfulness practice for individuals with a mood or anxiety disorder and to understand user experiences, which may affect the acceptability and efficacy of VR mindfulness for this population. This mixed methods study recruited 28 participants with a primary diagnosis of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or anxiety disorder. Participants completed a mindfulness practice wearing a VR headset that was presenting an omnidirectional video of a forest scene, which was overlaid with a guided audio voiceover. Before and after the practice, measures were completed assessing state mindfulness (Toronto Mindfulness Scale), affect (Positive and Negative Affect Schedule), and anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Y-1; n=27). Semistructured interviews were then held inquiring about the user experience and were analyzed using thematic analysis (n=24). After completing the VR-supported mindfulness practice, both measures of state mindfulness on the Toronto Mindfulness Scale, mean curiosity and decentering, increased significantly (Cohen d=1.3 and 1.51, respectively; P<.001). Negative affect on the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (Cohen d=0.62; P=.003) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Y-1 state anxiety (Cohen d=0.84; P<.001) significantly reduced. There was no significant change in positive affect (Cohen d=0.29; P=.08). Qualitative analysis of interviews identified 14 themes across 5 primary theme categories. The results suggested that being mindful during the use of the app was experienced as relatively effortless because of the visual and immersive elements. It was also experienced as convenient and safe, including when compared with prior traditional experiences of mindfulness. Participants also identified the uses for VR-supported mindfulness in managing emotions and symptoms of mental illness. The results provide preliminary evidence that VR-supported mindfulness can improve emotional states and manage mental health symptoms for those with mood or anxiety disorders. It offers some potential clinical applications for those with mood or anxiety disorders for exploration within future research.

Mindfulness and the Judging Mind in the Context of Buddhist Models of Mind

AbstractPsychological research on mindfulness has often focused on the effects of mindfulness training, such as clinical application, rather than on the meaning of mindfulness itself as taught in various spiritual, philosophical, and medical traditions. Mindfulness is often seen as a general training in attentional awareness. From a Buddhist perspective, this approach does not allow for the effective solution of deep-rooted problems arising from a deluded state of mind, which requires insight into the nature of mind. In order to apply the practice of mindfulness as a soteriological path, a precise understanding of the full range of functions of mindfulness and the judgmental mind is essential. To this end, this study explores the relevant definitions and levels of this practice in the context of Buddhist models of mind. This paper provides a profound analysis of early Indian Buddhist sources such as the Four Foundations of Mindfulness and later Tibetan Buddhist presentations, in particular those of the Kagyu lineage, such as the Distinction between Consciousness and Wisdom by the 3rd Karmapa Rangjung Dorje (1284–1339). Buddhist epistemology and meditation instructions offer various mind maps and discuss the steps in the process of perception, based on the application of mindfulness, to overcome deluded states of mind and develop highest wisdom. The theoretical and practical findings are intended to be helpful in integrating traditional Buddhist models of mindfulness and the judging mind, including issues of health and happiness, with our modern understanding of cognitive processes as described in applied psychology.

Mindfulness-based Neurofeedback: A Systematic Review of EEG and fMRI studies

Abstract Neurofeedback concurrent with mindfulness meditation may reveal meditation effects on the brain and facilitate improved mental health outcomes. Here, we systematically reviewed EEG and fMRI studies of mindfulness meditation with neurofeedback (mbNF) and followed PRISMA guidelines. We identified 9 fMRI reports, consisting of 177 unique participants, and 9 EEG reports, consisting of 242 participants. Studies of fMRI focused primarily on downregulating the default-mode network (DMN). Although studies found decreases in DMN activations during neurofeedback, there is a lack of evidence for transfer effects, and the majority of studies did not employ adequate controls, e.g. sham neurofeedback. Accordingly, DMN decreases may have been confounded by general task-related deactivation. EEG studies typically examined alpha, gamma, and theta frequency bands, with the most robust evidence supporting the modulation of theta band activity. Both EEG and fMRI mbNF have been implemented with high fidelity in clinical populations. However, the mental health benefits of mbNF have not been established. In general, mbNF studies would benefit from sham-controlled RCTs, as well as clear reporting (e.g. CRED-NF).

Stress, physical activity, and mindfulness practices among youth amidst COVID-19

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated stress and anxiety among young people, particularly university students, impacting their mental well-being and daily life. Given the rise in social isolation and economic uncertainty, the adoption of mindfulness practices such as sophrology, meditation, and yoga becomes essential for improving their mental health. This study aims to evaluate the impact of these practices on stress levels and their effect on engagement in physical activities among youths.MethodThis study employed a mixed methods design to assess the impact of different wellness and mindfulness practices on stress levels and physical activity (PA) engagement among university students. Quantitative data were gathered electronically from 218 students at the University of Rouen and the university of Paris-Cité through validated questionnaires, including custom tools on sports and mindfulness practices and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The sample consisted mainly of young adults aged 18 to 35, with a majority of 170 female and 48 male participants. Qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews with three directors of the university's sports and physical activities department (SUAPS), as well as four wellness program instructors. Data analysis involved statistical techniques using Statistical Analysis System (SAS) software for quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using Sphinx software, a tool for textual analysis. Ethical approval for the study was obtained, and confidentiality of all participants was maintained throughout the research.Results and conclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic had significant effects on French university students’ PA, mental health, and stress levels. Lockdowns led to a decline in sports practices for many, while others adapted by increasing their engagement in fitness and wellness practices. The majority of participants (64.68%) reported moderate levels of stress. A significant correlation was found between motivations for mental health support and stress management, and higher levels of stress (p = 0.0000 and p = 0.0024, respectively). Regular participation in wellness activities was associated with lower stress (p = 0.0193). The findings reinforce the idea that incorporating wellness practices into educational environments can strengthen students’ mental resilience and overall well-being, equipping them with essential tools to effectively cope with future stressors.

Exploring the Impact of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Disease Progression and Psychological Well-Being in Lung Cancer Patients: A Review

Lung cancer poses significant challenges not only in terms of physical health but also regarding psychological well-being, with many patients experiencing heightened anxiety and depression following diagnosis. This review explored the impact of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on disease progression and psychological well-being in lung cancer patients. MBSR, developed by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn, combines mindfulness meditation and yoga to promote present-moment awareness and emotional regulation. Through a comprehensive literature review, we examined the mechanisms by which MBSR may influence stress levels, enhance emotional resilience, and potentially affect clinical outcomes, including immune function and survival rates. Findings suggested that MBSR can significantly reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, improve overall quality of life, and foster a sense of community among participants. The integration of MBSR into standard cancer care is increasingly recognized as vital for addressing the psychological dimensions of treatment. Despite its promise, challenges remained in accessibility and implementation, highlighting the need for further research into personalized interventions and the long-term effects of mindfulness practices. This article underscored the importance of incorporating psychological support into lung cancer treatment regimens to enhance patient outcomes and overall well-being. Keywords: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Lung Cancer, Psychological Well-Being, Disease Progression, Anxiety and Depression

THE IMPACT OF NEUROSCIENCE-BASED MINDFULNESS TRAINING ON MENTAL HEALTH IN FUTURE PSYCHOLOGISTS

Purpose. This study investigates the effectiveness of a neuroscience-based mindfulness training program on emotional states, self-compassion traits and well-being status among psychology students during an 8-week intervention. The work focuses on developing emotional regulation, decreasing stress and depression, and increasing self-compassion and mindfulness — all of which are crucial skills for professional practice. Methods. This pilot study included fifty psychology students (M = 23.5, SD = 2.8) who were assessed using the DASS-21 for stress, anxiety, depression and Self-Compassion Scale for self-kindness, mindfulness and related traits before and after a special training program along with the BBC-SWB questionnaire for psychological, physical and subjective well-being. Statistical analyses such as paired t-tests, correlation analysis and hierarchical regression were used to assess the intervention's effectiveness and explore predictive relationships among variables. Results. The program was associated with significant reductions in anxiety, stress, and depression and increases in self-kindness, mindfulness, and psychological well-being. Given that emotional states and self-compassion traits function as mutually reinforcing factors, correlations provided evidence based on the holistic benefits of the program. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that both pre-intervention anxiety (β = 0.45, p &lt; 0.001) and self-kindness (β = 0.35, p = 0.05) significantly predicted psychological well-being after the intervention. These variables combined explained 52% of the outcome variance (R² = 0.52, p &lt; 0.001). Mindfulness explained an additional 17% variance beyond all other variables combined, affirming its role as a transformational variable within the model. Conclusions. This mindfulness training, based on neuroscience principles and research findings, is designed to decrease psychological suffering and enhance psychological resilience and self-compassion. The results call for incorporating such training within psychology educational programs, thus enhancing personal health and professional competence. Longitudinal studies investigating the long-term effects of mindfulness practices and their use in a broader range of populations are warranted for future research.

Mindfulness Meditation Changed Interregional Connectivity in Subcortical and Default Mode Networks in Internet Gaming Disorder

Mindfulness Meditation Changed Interregional Connectivity in Subcortical and Default Mode Networks in Internet Gaming Disorder

Should Individuals Choose Their Own Incentives? Evidence from a Mindfulness Meditation Intervention

Should Individuals Choose Their Own Incentives? Evidence from a Mindfulness Meditation Intervention

Using Artificial Intelligence-informed Experience-Based Co-Design (AI-EBCD) to create a virtual reality-based mindfulness application to reduce diabetes distress: protocol for a mixed-methods feasibility study

IntroductionPeople with type 2 diabetes can experience diabetes distress which can negatively affect health outcomes. Non-pharmacological interventions such as mindfulness can help address diabetes distress. However, face-to-face programmes can be...

The effects of one-session mindfulness meditation on mind wandering

The effects of one-session mindfulness meditation on mind wandering

Brief Online Training in Mindfulness Meditation Momentarily Reduces Some Impulsive Behaviors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Brief Online Training in Mindfulness Meditation Momentarily Reduces Some Impulsive Behaviors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Optimizing Compassion Training in Medical Trainees Using an Adjunct mHealth App: A Preliminary Single-Arm Feasibility and Acceptability Study.

While structured compassion training programs have shown promise for increasing compassion among medical trainees, a major challenge is applying the concepts and practices taught during the program into the complex, dynamic, time-pressured, and often hectic hospital workplace. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of Compassion Coach, a mobile health (mHealth) smartphone app designed to bolster a 6-week mindfulness and self-compassion training program for medical trainees. In Compassion Coach, notifications to remind, encourage, and measure the perceived impact of informal mindfulness and compassion practices taught during the program were delivered at 7 AM, 12 PM, and 7 PM, respectively, 3 times per week over the course of the training program. The app also contained a library of guided audio formal mindfulness and compassion practices to allow quick and easy access. In this pilot study, we collected data from 29 medical students and residents who downloaded Compassion Coach and completed surveys assessing perceived effectiveness and acceptability. Engagement with the Compassion Coach app was passively tracked through notification response rate and library resource access over time. The average response rate to notifications was 58% (SD 29%; range 12%-98%), with a significant decline over time (P=.009; odds ratio 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99). Across all participants and occasions, the majority agreed the informal practices prompted by Compassion Coach helped them feel grounded and centered (110/150, 73%), improved compassion (29/41, 71%), reduced burnout (106/191, 56%), and improved their mood (133/191, 70%). In total, 16 (55%) of the 29 participants accessed guided audio recordings on average 3 (SD 3.4) times throughout the program. At the posttreatment time point, most participants (13/18, 72%) indicated that Compassion Coach helped them engage in compassion practices in daily life, and half (9/18, 50%) indicated that Compassion Coach helped improve interactions with patients. Overall, preliminary results of Compassion Coach are encouraging and suggest the integration of a smartphone app with an ongoing mindfulness and self-compassion training program may bolster the effects of the program on medical trainees. However, there was variability in engagement with Compassion Coach and perceived helpfulness. Additional research is indicated to optimize this novel mHealth approach and conduct a study powered to formally evaluate effects.

Pathways to Emotional Self-Regulation through Mindfulness Meditation: A Mechanistic Study of Positive Psychology Interventions

Pathways to Emotional Self-Regulation through Mindfulness Meditation: A Mechanistic Study of Positive Psychology Interventions

First Report on the Bark Feeding Wasp Species on Lowland Apple and Stone Fruit Trees of Himachal Pradesh, India

Wasps are predominant in the Oriental and Palaearctic regions, sometimes used as dishes, and are important candidates for different ecosystems as predators and pollinators. In India, more than a dozen predatory wasp species have been reported to contribute to biological pest control. Various wasp species are invasive in some continents and pose an alarming threat to apiaries, households, and orchardists. Wasps feed on tree bark to fulfill their dietary needs but become dangerous to humans in orchards. The scientific reports on tree bark defoliation by wasps are little and scanty. A field-based survey study assessed the quantum of infestation in fruit orchards and the threat experienced by field workers in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India during the years 2022 and 2023. Wasps of species, Vespa basalis and V. auraria were encountered infesting five orchards on tree bark in Samloti (32.08° N, 76.35° E), Shahpur (32.2197° N, 76.1728° E), Nagrota (32.1054° N, 76.3789° E), and Hatwas (32.05 ° N and 76.40 ° E). Average tree per cent infestation during these years was recorded as 26.83%, 28.85%, 40.04%, 75% and 57.91% in lowland apple (Malus domestica), pear (Pyrus communis), peach (Prunus persica), losada (Cordia myxa), and sirish (Albizia lebbeck), respectively. This bark-feeding activity rendered the infested trees unfit for optimal growth, feeding on fruits, suggesting a potential threat to local orchard productivity. The noxious presence of wasps hinders activities, obstructs and stings field staff. Escalating wasp damage led farmers to adopt fermented honey bottle traps. This study is the maiden attempt to address the harmful behavior of wasps as tree bark feeders in India and may pave the way for detailed research in orchards. Thus, keeping in view the role of wasps within agricultural landscapes as detrimental agents, mindful management practices are therefore necessary.

Meditation(s) and the creative writing classroom: considering process

ABSTRACT This paper explores scientific research on meditation and creativity within the context of the creative writing classroom, arguing that meditation can be a useful tool for students developing a creative practice. While many teachers may use mindfulness and meditation strategies in the classroom, particularly in the United States, there is little scholarship that addresses the scientific data with a view to how it may assist creative writing and how it might benefit students at different stages of the writing process. For instance, research supports the hypothesis that mindfulness meditation increases divergent thinking and concentrative meditation increases convergent thinking – both styles being critical to the writing process at different times – and this has ramifications for how we might support student writing. This essay draws together relevant scientific work, flagging its relevance to the discipline and how it is used in ‘Creative Writing Major Project’ a third-year capstone subject at the University of Wollongong, Australia.

Exploring the Effects of Variety and Amount of Mindfulness Practices on Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Symptoms: Longitudinal Study on a Mental Health-Focused eHealth System for Patients With Breast or Prostate Cancer.

Patients with cancer often face depression and anxiety, and mindfulness-based interventions, including internet-based versions, can effectively reduce these symptoms and improve their quality of life. This study aims to investigate the impact of internet-based mindfulness-based interventions (e-MBIs) on anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms in patients with prostate or breast cancer. The primary aims are to assess the association between the amount and variety of e-MBI practices and symptom reduction. Second, this study aims to examine how baseline information such as sociodemographic characteristics, dispositional mindfulness (DM), and dispositional self-compassion (DSC) correlate with both app usage and symptom reduction. Participants included 107 patients with cancer (68 women with breast cancer and 38 men with prostate cancer) enrolled in a hospital setting. They were assigned to the intervention group of the NEVERMIND project, using the e-BMI module via the NEVERMIND app. A longitudinal design involved Pearson correlation analysis to determine the relationship between the amount and duration of e-MBI practices. Linear regression analysis was conducted to gauge the dose-response effect, evaluating the impact of DM and DSC on depression, anxiety, and stress. Negative binomial regression was conudcted to study sociodemographic factors' influence on the amount of practice in e-MBIs. The participants with more diverse and sustained mindfulness practices experienced significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress. A high correlation (0.94) between e-MBI practices and symptom reduction was also highlighted. Male, married, and highly educated patients were more likely to engage in mindfulness. Even if DM and DSC did not impact the amount or variety of practices correlated, they were correlated with symptom reduction, showing that higher levels were associated with significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress. While more e-MBI practice is linked to reduced anxiety, depression, and stress, this study emphasizes the crucial role of variety of practice over amount. DM and DSC are key in shaping intervention effectiveness and may act as protectors against psychological distress. Using app log data, our research provides a unique perspective on e-MBI impact, contributing to cancer care understanding and guiding future studies.

Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Anxiety Disorder: A Systematic Review

Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, and specific phobias, are significant public health concerns that affect millions worldwide and lead to substantial impairments in daily functioning and quality of life. Traditional treatments may not suit everyone, highlighting the need for alternatives like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), which emphasizes mindfulness meditation. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of MBSR in reducing anxiety symptoms across various anxiety disorders by synthesizing research findings from studies published between January 2013 and April 2024. A comprehensive search was conducted in electronic databases, including PubMed, Semantic Scholar, ScienceDirect, PsycINFO, and Web of Science, using keywords such as “Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction,” “MBSR,” “anxiety disorder,” and “effectiveness.” Peer-reviewed studies assessing the efficacy of MBSR on anxiety disorders were included, with data extraction and quality assessment performed following PRISMA 2022 guidelines. The search identified 1095 articles, with 13 studies meeting the inclusion criteria for the final analysis, encompassing a total sample size of 751 participants. The studies varied in design, sample size, participant demographics, and targeted anxiety disorders. Findings consistently showed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms among participants receiving MBSR compared to control groups. For GAD, studies reported improvements in anxiety and stress measures such as the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). For SAD, reductions in social anxiety symptoms were observed, with some studies showing comparable effectiveness to CBT. This review presents compelling evidence supporting the efficacy of MBSR in reducing symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. Future research should focus on the long-term effects, impact on diverse demographic groups, and specific mechanisms to improve its clinical applicability.