Abstract Background We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to examine the effects of mindfulness‐based interventions (MBIs) on emotion regulation (ER) and emotion dysregulation (ED) in people with any mental health condition. Methods Following a pre‐registered protocol (PROSPERO CRD42024618605), we searched multiple databases (Web of Science, PsycINFO, Embase, and PubMed) on 04/07/2025. We identified randomised‐controlled trials (RCTs) in which the effects of MBIs on ER or ED were measured in people with mental health conditions established by an adequately trained healthcare professional according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (from third to fifth editions) or equivalent diagnosis as per the International Classification of Diseases (ninth or 10th revisions). Pooled effect sizes (Hedge's g ) were estimated using random‐effect meta‐analyses. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2 . Results We identified 19 RCTs, with 16 in the meta‐analyses (988 participants in total; 50.71% randomised to MBIs). We found that MBIs significantly improved cognitive reappraisal ( k = 6, g = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.33, 0.98) and reduced overall ED ( k = 9; g = −0.54; CI = −0.71, −0.36). Significant reductions in ED domains concerning goal‐directedness, impulsivity, and accessing ER strategies were found. Effects for expressive suppression were nonsignificant ( k = 6; g = −0.25; CI = −0.94, 0.45) with significant heterogeneity. Study quality significantly moderated both ER outcomes, though not overall ED. Conclusion MBIs show potential for improving cognitive reappraisal and reducing ED across diagnoses. However, limited evidence for younger people and self‐report measurements warrant cautious interpretation. Trial Registration NIHR PROSPERO 2024 CRD42024618605. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024618605 .

Stress impacts the quality of life for stroke survivors (SS) and support persons (SPs) during recovery, negatively affecting both individuals in the stroke dyad (SD). While mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) can improve well-being, their complexity and time demands are significant barriers for implementation in the stroke community. Tailoring MBI to the needs of SS and SP (modified-MBI) shows promise in improving stress and quality of life for both members of the SD throughout long-term recovery. METHODS: The A Mindful Approach to Managing Stress (A-MAMS) intervention enrolled 58 participants to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an 8-week virtual asynchronous m-MBI. Enrollment, retention, lesson, and homework completion rates were measured. End-of-study feedback survey (EOS) data was also collected. RESULTS: The A-MAMS intervention demonstrated high feasibility (enrollment rate=96.7%; attendance rate=98.3%) and acceptability (lesson and homework completion rates=97.8% and 98.8%, retention rate=89.7%). A total of 52 participants (30 SS and 22 SP; 15 SD members) completed all course components and EOS. The EOS feedback indicated 96.2% found the intervention helpful for stress management and would recommend it. No significant dyadic effect was identified. CONCLUSION: This remotely delivered m-MBI was feasible and acceptable for adult SS and SP. These findings support the utility of tailored, accessible mindfulness interventions for the SD, laying a foundation for future research on their implementation and impact.

Mindfulness-based Interventions for Pain and Symptom Management in Adolescent Cancer: Systematic Review.

Mindfulness-based stress reduction for functional neurological disorder: A feasibility study.

ABSTRACT Because threatening health messages often trigger defensive responses rather than behavioral change, it is critical to identify effective approaches for reducing defensiveness toward health threats. Building on evidence of the efficacy of mindfulness, this study investigated whether brief mindfulness meditation can reduce individual defensiveness and promote health intentions and behaviors across two domains: sleep health and disease screening. Two online experiments (N1 = 248; N2 = 168) were conducted. Experiment 1 addressed sleep hygiene, while Experiment 2 utilized a fictional rare disease screening scenario. Fear, defensiveness, and intentions were measured in both experiments; Experiment 2 further assessed actual appointment-making behavior. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, ANCOVA, and mediation modeling via the PROCESS macro for SPSS. Brief mindfulness meditation consistently reduced defensiveness and indirectly increased intentions for sleep improvement and health screening in both experiments. In Experiment 2, a serial mediation effect was observed: mindfulness increased risk-feedback acceptance and reduced message defensiveness, which in turn bolstered screening intentions. However, the effect of mindfulness on actual screening appointment behavior was non-significant. Brief mindfulness meditation practice attenuates defensive responses to health threats and enhances behavioral intentions in both sleep and screening contexts. These findings suggest that brief mindfulness-based interventions can potentially amplify the impact of health communication by fostering a more receptive and less defensive processing of health-related information.

Beneficial effects of mindful eating-based interventions during pregnancy have been reported. This study aimed to synthesize the available evidence on the effects of mindfulness-based interventions during pregnancy that incorporate a mindful eating (ME) protocol on the health and well-being of pregnant women, including mental health, body metabolism (weight gain and/or blood glucose levels), eating behavior, and physical activity levels. The search was conducted in the Medline, Web of Science, PsycArticles, Embase, Scopus, Food Science Source, CINAHL, and Google Scholar databases. Studies that describe ME-based interventions in pregnant women were identified. Risk of bias was determined using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool, and the level of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Of the 489 articles identified, only 4 non-randomized intervention studies met the inclusion criteria. All selected studies used the "Mindful Motherhood Training" protocol and employed validated methods for measuring outcomes. The studies assessed the impact of the intervention on mental health and revealed significant reductions in stress and depressive symptoms, and significant increases in physical activity, among other outcomes. Although they showed that there are potentially benefits from ME interventions, particularly in contributing to mental health (reduction in depressive symptoms) and increasing physical activity levels, the included studies were assessed as being exploratory in nature, of low methodological quality, having inconsistent results, and having aspects of serious concern regarding the certainty domain. Improvements in the quality of the ME interventions during pregnancy are necessary. PROSPERO registration No. CRD42024496025.

Background Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are psychological skills training approaches that are well recognized for enhancing psychological factors that influence sports performance. However, some factors, such as time commitment, cost, and accessibility required for traditional MBIs, can be a barrier to regular practice. As a result, brief MBIs with a duration of ≤ 30 min have gained popularity. This systematic review aims to explore the effect of brief MBIs on short sport-related performance. Method A comprehensive search was conducted in five databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and EBSCOhost, for articles published up to 14 November 2025. The search utilized a combination of keywords related to brief MBIs and sport-related performance. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool. Results Ten randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. Overall, brief MBIs demonstrated beneficial effects on several short sport-related performance outcomes, particularly precision-based motor skills. Significant improvements were observed in golf putting, hand grip strength, basketball tactical performance, and in some cases basketball free-throw shooting and soccer penalty kicks. However, results for basketball free-throw accuracy were mixed, and no significant effects were found for muscular endurance. The interventions varied in type, duration, and delivery mode, with most employing 4–30 min of audio-guided mindfulness practices. Risk of bias across studies was generally low, though inadequate reporting of randomization procedures was the most common concern. Conclusion Brief MBIs lasting 30 min or less may induce short-term enhancements in certain domains of sport-related performance, particularly in tasks requiring attentional stability, fine motor control, and decision-making. However, these effects appear to be acute in nature, evidence remains inconsistent across sport types, and conclusions are limited by the small number of available studies. Future research should adopt standardized mindfulness assessments, include a broader range of physical performance indicators and relevant physiological measures to better elucidate the mechanisms underlying short-term brief MBIs effects in real competitive environments. Systematic review registration https://inplasy.com/ , INPLASY2022120086.

This systematic review and meta-analyses provide the first synthesis of the literature on trait mindfulness and psychotic-like experiences (PLEs). Theoretical models suggest a protective function of mindfulness and it is important to understand any potential role of mindfulness in the prevention and treatment of PLEs. We examined the following: (1) What is the relationship between trait mindfulness and PLEs in nonclinical populations?; and (2) What is the effect of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on PLEs in nonclinical populations? Five databases were searched, and effect sizes were extracted for each study. Seventeen papers were included in the review. Eleven papers explored the relationship between mindfulness and PLEs, and the meta-regression found a small negative association between PLEs and mindfulness (k=8; pooled correlation r=-0.25; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.37, -0.13, p<.001). Eight studies investigated the effect of MBIs on PLEs and the summary effect was not significant in the meta-analysis (k=5; pooled standard mean difference=.09; 95% CI: -0.61, 0.79, p=0.80). Overall, the findings suggest that higher levels of mindfulness are associated with reduced PLEs, with no evidence for the effectiveness of MBIs in reducing PLEs. Findings should be interpreted cautiously given the small number of studies and high heterogeneity in the meta-analyses. Future studies are needed to determine whether MBIs might prevent the transition to psychosis or an at-risk mental state and might usefully measure a broader range of clinically relevant outcomes.

Gambling disorder (GD) presents significant psychological, financial, and social consequences. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have emerged as promising adjunctive treatments. However, the evidence base remains heterogeneous. The present systematic review evaluated the current empirical literature on MBIs for GD, focusing on their efficacy, methodological quality, and limitations. Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and PsycINFO were searched for English-language studies published between 2012 and April 2025. The final sample comprised 12 studies: five randomized controlled trials, one controlled pilot study, two repeated-measures studies, one mixed-methods study, and three single-group pretest-posttest studies. A narrative synthesis evaluated MBI impacts. MBIs consistently reduced gambling frequency and cravings while enhancing psychological outcomes. Studies combining mindfulness with cognitive behavioral therapy showed significant declines in problem gambling behavior. Psychological distress and cravings also decreased notably across interventions. The mindfulness components employed varied in focus and application, adding nuance to outcome interpretation. However, it remains unclear to what extent the observed effects can be attributed to mindfulness-specific mechanisms. MBIs show promise as a complementary treatment for gambling disorders, although small sample sizes and methodological limitations suggest a need for more robust research.

Large-scale traumatic events such as earthquakes have profound and long-lasting impacts on individuals' psychological well-being. However, the protective mechanisms that may foster adjustment and support life satisfaction in the aftermath of such disasters remain insufficiently explored. This longitudinal study examined the mediating role of psychological adjustment in the relationship between mindfulness and life satisfaction among young adult earthquake survivors. Data were collected through two web-based surveys conducted approximately six months apart. The final sample consisted of 277 Turkish young adults (58.5% female; M = 21.52, SD = 2.29). Using a cross-lagged panel model for a half-longitudinal design, the findings revealed that mindfulness at Time 1 significantly predicted higher psychological adjustment at Time 2, which in turn contributed to greater life satisfaction. Moreover, psychological adjustment mediated the longitudinal association between mindfulness and life satisfaction. In this context, the findings suggest that mindfulness-based interventions and structured psychological counseling can effectively support life satisfaction and post-trauma adjustment, offering practical guidance for post-disaster mental health practices.

Testicular cancer (TC) disproportionately affects younger men and carries unique psychosocial and physiological consequences that extend well beyond treatment. Despite favorable survival rates, TC survivors frequently report diminished health-related quality of life (HRQoL). These burdens are often compounded by masculinity-related identity disruptions, fear of recurrence, sexual dysfunction, and a lack of tailored psychosocial support. Existing interventions remain limited, with most programs focused on physical rehabilitation or early detection. Few address the multidimensional stressors that shape the TC survivorship experience. This narrative review examines the literature on HRQoL among TC survivors and evaluates the potential of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) as a viable therapeutic strategy. A comprehensive literature search identified artivles that were produced in the past two decades+ that investigated the relationship between MBIs and TC survivor HRQoL. Evidence from broader cancer populations demonstrates that MBIs, such as meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness-based psychoeducation, can reduce psychological distress and promote emotional regulation. Programs like MindCAN have shown promise in improving self-awareness, affect, and coping. Importantly, MBIs offer a low-cost, flexible, and sustainable approach that aligns with the autonomy often valued by men navigating survivorship. To date, no fully developed mindfulness trials have been developed specifically for TC survivors. Given the early age of diagnosis and long survivorship trajectories, as well as the unique psychological and physiological health outcomes associated with TC, MBIs may be especially well-suited to this population. This review calls for a renewed focus on implementing mindfulness-based strategies designed for the lived realities of TC survivors. Doing so may meaningfully enhance post-treatment outcomes, reduce disparities in male mental health care, and promote holistic wellness in one of the most underserved cancer survivor populations.

Effects of non-pharmacological interventions in patients with cancer-related cognitive impairment: A meta-analysis.

Introduction: Many women experience fear regarding childbirth, scientifically known as tocophobia. Mild levels of tocophobia may be normal during pregnancy, but higher or severe levels can be pathological and detrimental to the health of both the pregnant woman and her unborn child. The present systematic review focuses on understanding the various interventions used to manage tocophobia among pregnant women. Aim: To systematically evaluate and synthesise Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) published between 2019 and 2024 that examine the effectiveness of interventions in reducing tocophobia. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, EBSCOhost, and Google Scholar. Only articles that met the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for this review. Studies were included if they were RCTs published in English and focused on interventions such as counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and mindfulness. Pharmacological studies and non-RCT designs were excluded. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) RCT Checklist (2018), which evaluates 11 parameters: clarity of research focus, randomisation, follow-up, blinding, baseline group similarity, equal treatment, clarity of results, estimate precision, consideration of benefits versus harms, applicability, and value of findings. Results: Eighteen RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Interventions included CBT, mindfulness-based interventions, midwife-led counselling, psychoeducation, and hypnobirthing. CBT and midwife-led interventions consistently reduced tocophobia scores. Quality appraisal showed that most studies had moderate to high methodological quality. These interventions ranged from 2 to 8 sessions and were delivered individually or in groups, through face-to-face, online, or telephonic formats. Conclusion: Findings from this systematic review indicate that CBT and midwife-led counselling are highly effective in reducing childbirth-related fear. These non-pharmacological approaches enhance mental well-being and improve the overall birth experience. Implementing these evidence-based strategies can lead to more positive childbirth outcomes, greater maternal confidence, and reduced reliance on unnecessary medical interventions such as elective caesarean sections. Future research should focus on identifying the optimal timing, delivery format, and long-term impact of these interventions in diverse settings.

Emotion regulation-targeted interventions initiated during hospitalization for suicidal crisis: a systematic review and exploratory meta-analysis.

The effects of mindfulness and cognitive strategy interventions on core symptoms in children with ADHD: A randomized controlled trial.

Mindfulness-based therapy for adolescent internet gaming disorder: A feasibility and pilot study.

The effectiveness of second-generation mindfulness interventions on anxiety and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a chronic, multi-system condition affecting a substantial proportion of veterans deployed during the 1990-1991 Gulf War. Neurological complications, including cognitive impairment, musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, depression, and migraine, represent a major clinical burden. Evidence implicates neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic dysregulation as central mechanisms, with emerging data suggesting early tauopathy and sex-specific immune responses. Neuroimaging studies reveal hippocampal atrophy, white matter disruptions, and increased translocator protein (TSPO) binding, while biomarker analyses identify elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), leptin, and matrix metalloproteinases. Genetic factors, such as HLA alleles, may modulate susceptibility. Animal models corroborate these findings, demonstrating hippocampal dysfunction, neurotransmitter imbalance, and neuroimmune activation following exposure to Gulf War-related chemicals. Therapeutic evidence supports cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exercise, and mindfulness-based interventions, with ongoing trials exploring vagus nerve stimulation, anti-inflammatory agents, and mitochondrial-targeted therapies. This review synthesizes current knowledge on GWI-related neurological dysfunction, highlights diagnostic and therapeutic advances, and underscores the need for biomarker-driven, sex-specific, and personalized approaches to improve outcomes for affected veterans.

This study examined the effect of a mindfulness-based intervention on vocational high school students’ academic stress prior to examinations. A quantitative quasi-experimental design with a non-randomized pretest–posttest control group was employed. Thirty-four tenth-grade students were assigned to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group participated in six mindfulness sessions incorporating box breathing, loving-kindness meditation, mindful eating, and mindful walking, while the control group received no specific treatment. Academic stress was measured using the stress subscale of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-42), which demonstrated strong content validity based on Aiken’s V coefficients and excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.980). Paired-samples t-test results indicated a significant reduction in academic stress in the experimental group (p &lt; .05), whereas no significant change was observed in the control group. These findings suggest that mindfulness training is an effective preventive approach for enhancing students’ capacity to regulate academic stress in examination contexts. The study highlights the potential integration of mindfulness practices into school-based counseling services to promote adolescents’ psychological well-being

Current research on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in schools generally shows positive effects on various teacher outcomes. However, previous research has not examined the effects of teacher training independently from those of classroom training. Our study evaluated the impact of the MoMento teacher and classroom training (cf. combined mindfulness-based training) on mindfulness skills and well-being of primary school teachers (N=27) using a block-randomized waitlist control group design across three measurement points. Self-report questionnaires assessing mindfulness skills (intra- and interpersonal mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-criticism) as well as well-being (emotional exhaustion, job satisfaction, life satisfaction, psychological well-being, positive and negative affect) were completed before and after the 8-week teacher training, as well as after the subsequent implementation of the 10-week classroom training. Significant improvements were found in mindfulness skills (intrapersonal mindfulness, self-criticism), but no improvements were observed in well-being. The improvements in mindfulness skills mostly occurred during the teacher training and were maintained through the subsequent implementation of the classroom training. Our study provides a foundation for a detailed examination of the effects of combined mindfulness-based programs. In the context of teacher professional development, disentangling training effects may provide valuable insights for the design of future interventions.