Mindfulness Techniques Research Articles

Questioning the status quo: Latino community members as researchers in the study of health equity.

Latinos experience disproportionate rates of obesity and related conditions like type 2 diabetes, which are projected to increase (Mohebi et al., 2022). Standard interventions for these issues often fall short due to individual-focused approaches and the lack of culturally sensitive definitions of health that include emotional, physical, political, and social domains (Gutierrez Chavez et al., 2022; Ritchie et al., 2020). Multilevel and multidimensional research efforts, integrating social justice-informed orientations, psychotherapy science, and behavioral medicine, are crucial for addressing these health inequities (Asnaani, 2023; Collins et al., 2018; Rodriguez Espinosa & Verney, 2021). Additionally, critically analyzing researcher and participant roles is essential to avoid perpetuating systemic racism (Cook et al., 2023). This article highlights the need for a paradigm shift in psychotherapy research by (a) describing Latino families' eating patterns and coping strategies for emotional distress through focus groups in the community and (b) illustrating the process behind the community-partnered development of a culturally responsive mindfulness-based health intervention. Importantly, this research approach emphasizes liberation psychology theory in the exploration of structural influences affecting health (Martín-Baró, 1996). While mindfulness techniques are feasible in this population (Cotter & Jones, 2020), Latino communities may not be amenable to the current presentation of mainstream psychological science interventions. Our research paradigm informed the conceptualization of mindfulness techniques through both clinical science and critical lenses. Thus, this study argues for reconceptualizing the definition of a successful psychotherapy study to include community engagement and liberatory principles, making the potential for big needle jumps in addressing health inequities incalculable. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Assessment and Management of Depressive Disorder: A Case Report of an Unmarried Adult

This case study examines the psychological and social aspects impacting the mental well-being of a 32-year-old unmarried woman. Based on comprehensive clinical assessment, Client D.A. was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) using Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5), Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2), Rotter Incomplete Sentences Blank College Form (RISB), Draw-a-Person (DAP), clinical interviews, and behavioral observations. A multifaceted treatment plan was developed, combining cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), pharmacotherapy, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. This study provides insights into her experiences of depression, social isolation, societal expectations, and self-esteem. Over the course of the treatment, Client D.A. demonstrated significant improvement in her depressive symptoms. Her negative thought patterns were effectively restructured through CBT and her interpersonal relationships improved with IPT. Additionally, pharmacotherapy stabilized her mood, while mindfulness techniques helped manage anxiety and stress. This case study highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing mental health and underscores the importance of culturally sensitive, personalized treatment approaches, as evidenced by Client D.A.’s increased social engagement, reduced loneliness, and improved well-being, with regular evaluations confirming sustained progress and the efficacy of the integrated treatment plan in promoting recovery.

Positive Implications of Introducing Mindfulness Techniques as a Platform for Preoperative Stress Reduction to Improve Patient Outcomes Postpercutaneous Coronary Intervention

Positive Implications of Introducing Mindfulness Techniques as a Platform for Preoperative Stress Reduction to Improve Patient Outcomes Postpercutaneous Coronary Intervention

Mind-Body Classroom Strategies: Techniques to Reduce Elementary Student Stress Following Active Shooter Drills

Active shooter drills are widely used in schools throughout the United States, with more than 92% of public schools having an active shooter plan. These drills can increase student stress and anxiety and can have a variety of negative effects, such as somatic complaints, anxiety, poor self-regulation of emotions and behaviors, risk for depression, and prevalence of obesity and eating disorders. This article describes the efficacy of physical activity breaks, mindful breathing techniques, and emotional regulation strategies to reduce stress reactivity and enhance recovery in elementary-age students following active shooter safety drills. A list of example activities is provided for each of the three stress management categories. Each of the activities can be adapted to various developmental levels (i.e., K-12), settings (i.e., classroom, hallway, outdoors), and time availability (i.e., one minute to 10 minutes). The strategies may also be utilized following other emergency drills or during other times of high student and classroom stress.

Experimental Testing of a Short Model of Integrative Psychotherapeutic Intervention to Reduce Suicidal Behavior and Ideation in Depressed Patients Admitted to the Psychiatric Ward

<p>This study investigates the efficacy of a short-term integrative psychotherapeutic intervention designed to reduce suicidal behavior and ideation in depressed patients admitted to a psychiatric ward. Suicidal risk, influenced by mental health disorders, personal crises, social isolation, substance abuse, and trauma, is typically treated with pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. The study focuses on combining various psychotherapeutic techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) into a cohesive intervention program.</p><p>The intervention, delivered over four weeks, included six modules encompassing psychoeducation, behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness practices, and personal development strategies. Participants were divided into an experimental group receiving both the psychotherapeutic intervention and medication and a control group receiving only medication.</p><p>The study measured changes in hopelessness and depression using the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and the DASS-21R depression scale. The study concludes that integrative psychotherapeutic intervention significantly improves psychological outcomes for depressed patients at risk of suicide, offering a viable complement to pharmacological treatments. These findings support the potential of combining cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness techniques for the holistic management of depression and suicidal ideation in clinical settings.</p>Results indicated significant reductions in hopelessness and depression among the experimental group. Specifically, the BHS and MADRS scores showed substantial decreases post-intervention, highlighting the immediate efficacy of the integrated psychotherapeutic approach. However, the DASS-21R results did not demonstrate statistically significant differences.

Virtual Reality as an Interactive Tool for the Implementation of Mindfulness in University Settings: A Systematic Review

Over the last few years, the importance of Mindfulness in the field of research has grown exponentially, as it has demonstrated various benefits in improving mental health, although there are still various difficulties in putting these techniques into practice among the university population. However, Virtual Reality is emerging as a tool to improve the implementation of these techniques. For this reason, a systematic review was carried out of the different studies that aim to analyze the impact of the use of Virtual Reality for the implementation of Mindfulness techniques that contribute to the improvement of mental health among the university population at national and international levels. For this review, different international reference databases were searched, such as Web of Science and Scopus, and all selected articles had to be published in the period between 2010 and 2024. The selected publications had to be primary research involving a Mindfulness intervention, carried out among university students, and whose main tool for its implementation was Virtual Reality. A total of seventy-eight studies were initially identified, from which fourteen were selected, as the rest did not meet the inclusion criteria. In sum, the results show that the use of Virtual Reality as a tool for the implementation of Mindfulness techniques is certainly effective in reducing and mitigating high levels of anxiety, depression, and stress among university students. All of the research analyzed shows a substantial improvement in the quality of life, mental health, and life satisfaction of the participants.

HOW DOES TEACHER EMOTIONAL BURNOUT SYNDROME AFFECT TEACHERS’ DEVELOPMENT?

In this article, we explore the phenomenon of teacher emotional burnout syndrome (EBS), a critical issue affecting educators worldwide. EBS arises due to prolonged stress, high emotional demands, and inadequate support in the teaching environment, leading to mental, emotional, and physical exhaustion. The study examines the underlying causes of EBS, including excessive workload, lack of autonomy, and insufficient resources, which contribute to feelings of frustration and helplessness among teachers. Key symptoms of emotional burnout, such as chronic fatigue, irritability, emotional detachment, and reduced personal accomplishment, are identified as warning signs that need immediate attention. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention, providing a comprehensive overview of preventive measures. These include strategies like promoting work-life balance, encouraging peer support networks, implementing mindfulness techniques, and offering professional development on stress management. Practical recommendations for educational institutions, such as reducing administrative burdens and fostering a supportive workplace culture, are also discussed to create a healthier teaching environment. By addressing both the personal and organizational factors contributing to emotional burnout, this article aims to enhance teachers' well-being and protect them from the long-term impacts of EBS.

Supporting the Mind in Space: Psychological Tools for Long-Duration Missions.

The psychological well-being of astronauts is becoming just as vital as their physical and technical readiness as space missions extend into deep space. Long-duration missions pose unique challenges, such as isolation, confinement, communication delays, and microgravity, which can significantly affect mental health and cognitive performance. This commentary discusses the need for innovative mental health support systems, including automated psychotherapy, as well as Earth-based training methods like mindfulness and relaxation techniques, to address the psychological demands of space travel. By integrating these approaches into pre-mission preparation and in-flight routines, astronauts can develop self-regulation strategies to manage stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional resilience. Automated psychotherapy available 24-7 provides real-time confidential support when communication with Earth is delayed. As space exploration moves forward, the success of missions will depend not only on technological advancements but also on the development of psychological countermeasures that prioritize mental health alongside physical well-being. This paper emphasizes the importance of continued research and collaboration to refine and test these tools in analog environments, ensuring astronauts are mentally and emotionally prepared for the challenges of space.

Influence of Work-Related Stress on the Performance of Teachers in Public Secondary Schools in Kiambu County, Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to influence of work-related stress on the performance of teachers in Public Secondary Schools in Kiambu County, Kenya Methodology: The psychological well-being theory, the person-environment fit theory, and the Job Demands-Resources model served as the guiding theories for the study. The study used a descriptive survey research approach. Target population was 4288 teachers in public high schools out of which a sample size of 365 was selected using Yamane formula. The sample size was chosen using stratified random sampling method. Primary data was collected using questionnaires. To determine the validity and reliability of the questionnaires, a pilot test was carried out. Quantitative analysis of the data gathered from the surveys was conducted. Inferential and descriptive statistics was used for analysis. The data was summarized into frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation and presented using pie charts and frequency tables. Findings: From the findings, it was established that work related stress (b=0.018, p=0.000<0.05), had a statistically significant relationship with the performance of teachers in public secondary schools in Kiambu County, Kenya. Notably, aspects such as being upset because of things have happened unexpectedly, being unable to control the important things in life, being overwhelmed by the workload significantly affected the performance of teachers in the public secondary schools. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was guided by the person-environment fit theory. The study therefore recommended that the public secondary schools should introduce regular stress management workshops and training for teachers. These programs should focus on coping mechanisms, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. In order to enhance the environmental mastery of teachers, the school administration needs to offer ongoing professional development opportunities that focus on enhancing adaptability, problem-solving skills, and decision-making abilities.

Maintaining Mental Health: Mindfulness Techniques for Clinicians

Urologists suffer from one of the highest rates of burnout, with negative effects for both physicians and patients. We share simple mindfulness-based strategies as invaluable tools for improving mental health, regulating physical and emotional responses to stressors, and strengthening resilience.

The effect of MBCT mindfulness-based cognitive therapy techniques on increasing hope in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy

The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of mindfulness techniques on increasing hope in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. For this purpose, 30 cancer patients in two control and experimental groups were available by sampling. This research method was semi-experimental, and in this regard, Freiberg (2001) and Snyder (1991) hope test questionnaires were used to collect data. The subjects of the experimental group participated in 8 sessions of 35 minutes of individual psychological therapy of mindfulness. The Freiberg test was performed in the experimental group to mentally prepare the patients for the research before the mindfulness sessions. Also, the subjects responded to Snyder's hope questionnaire as a pre-test and post-test. For data analysis, mean difference and analysis of covariance test (ANCOVA) were used in SPSS software version 22. The findings showed that mindfulness techniques have a positive effect on increasing hope in cancer patients. These findings can provide a new platform for optimal psychological interventions along with medical treatments, to help cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Lessons Learned from a Community-led, Pilot Teletherapy Group for Older Women Living with Depression and HIV.

Older women with HIV face challenges to their quality of life, including neurocognitive decline, early-onset menopause, and chronic health issues. Chief among these concerns is depression, the most common psychiatric comorbidity among people living with HIV, with rates twice as high among women as men. However, tailored interventions among older women living with HIV and depression are lacking. Following the ADAPT-ITT framework to adapt existing interventions for cultural relevance among groups of people living with HIV, the study team revised an evidence-based intervention, the 'Stress Management and Relaxation Training/Expressive Supportive Therapy Women's Project (SMART/EST),' for online implementation. Working with two community stakeholders, the study team conducted focus groups, theater testing, and manual adaptation. This resulted in the development of e-SMART/EST, an online teletherapy group co-facilitated by a Licensed Psychologist and a credentialed Peer Counselor. The adapted, eight-session weekly intervention was tested with an exploratory pilot sample of eight older women (55 years and older) with HIV and depression. Participants rated the acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of the intervention, as well as symptoms of depression and HIV-related quality of life before and after the group. The e-SMART/EST Women's Project demonstrated high acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness. Engagement was high, as women attended an average of 6.8 sessions. In qualitative interviews, participants reported peer co-facilitation, culturally relevant themes (e.g., HIV-related minority stress, critical consciousness, grief, and sex and pleasure), mindfulness techniques, and cohesion with other women as main favorable elements of the intervention. Barriers to online implementation included technological issues, distractions due to remote participation, and hindered emotional attunement compared with in-person group therapy. Findings support further research to test similar interventions in full-scale trials with older women living with depression and HIV.

The Effect of Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation on Self-care Competence Among Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy.

Many cancer patients require long-term self-care, both during and after treatment, and need to have self-care competence. Mindfulness and emotional regulation can enhance self-care competence among cancer patients. To examine the effect of mindfulness and emotional regulation on self-care competence among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The data were completed by 106 cancer patients who were hospitalized at 3 long-term nursing hospitals. The instruments were the Mindfulness Scale, Korean Version of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, and Self-As-Care Inventory Scale. Self-care competence was significantly correlated with mindfulness among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Also, the relationship between mindfulness and emotional regulation was significant. However, emotional regulation did not significantly affect self-care competence. It is important for cancer patients to focus on the present moment and maintain a balanced approach that keeps a distance from excessive worry. Development and application of interventions aimed at enhancing self-care competence among cancer patients should focus on a high level of mindfulness. It is necessary to support cancer patients in taking time out for mindfulness practice through meditation programs and to help them seamlessly incorporate this habit into their daily lives. Nurses can effectively assist cancer patients by being well-versed in mindfulness techniques and providing adept guidance. Offering personalized mindfulness guidance based on the patient's condition and needs is also beneficial. By developing programs that incorporate feedback from both patients and healthcare providers, nurses can help patients continuously apply mindfulness practices.

Study protocol of a sequential, multiple assignment, randomised trial using an adaptive intervention to reduce loneliness among Chinese older adults in Hong Kong

BackgroundLoneliness is a prevalent and alarming issue among older adults that requires effective interventions. While randomised controlled trials have been commonly undertaken to explore reduction in loneliness, there is a...

Enhancing health-related fitness, self-efficacy, and quality of life in adults with physical disabilities: A 9-week community-based structured exercise and mindfulness program

Adults with physical disabilities encounter multifaceted challenges, emphasizing the critical need to address both their physical and psychological well-being while overcoming barriers to physical active participation. Recognizing and addressing these issues is vital for creating inclusive interventions that cater to their specific needs, promoting active engagement, and enhancing overall well-being. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of integrating structured exercise and mindfulness techniques in a community-based exercise program tailored for adults with physical disabilities to enhance health-related fitness, self-efficacy, and overall quality of life. Fifteen participants, aged 25–55, with diverse mobility impairments, musculoskeletal conditions, and neurological disorders, participated in a 9-week individualized structured exercise program, involving 90-minute sessions two times weekly. The program focused on improving physical and psychological well-being through combined physical and psychological training. Measurements were assessed at baseline and program completion, covering health-related fitness, self-efficacy, and quality of life domains. Paired t-test and MANOVA revealed substantial improvements in health-related fitness markers, including grip strength and body composition, alongside heightened self-efficacy, and improvements across multiple quality of life domains compared to pretest measures. These improvements were statistically significant (p < 0.05) and demonstrated a moderate effect size on average (Cohen’s d = 0.5–0.8) across the assessed variables. Pearson correlation analysis indicated grip strength and fat mass had a significant correlation with quality of life (p < 0.05). Future research should include larger, controlled studies, as the lack of a control group and small sample size limit conclusions, yet the integration of structured exercise and mindfulness techniques in a community-based exercise program showed promising outcomes for enhancing the physical and psychological well-being of adults with physical disabilities, underscoring its potential significance in disability and rehabilitation studies.

Effect of mindfulness-based intervention on perceived stress among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Breast cancer is the second most prevalent disease among women in India and one of the most dangerous and lethal. Chemotherapy-treated breast cancer patients may have perceived stress, which is defined as emotions of mental or physical exhaustion that make them feel angry or anxious. Mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) gives some ideas in line with the conventional mindfulness technique. (i) To assess the effect of MBI on perceived stress among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. (ii) To determine the association between perceived stress with selected demographic variables among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The current quantitative pre- and postexperimental study was carried out in two oncology departments of selected cancer hospitals, Bhubaneswar. A total number of 40 breast cancer patients of perceived stress receiving chemotherapy and data were gathered by using a self-structured socio-demographic proforma and a structured Perceived Stress Scale 10. The experimental group received MBI, and a posttest was conducted on the 17th day on both the groups after 10 days of the termination of intervention. This MBI was provided to breast cancer patients for five sessions over five days continuously, each session for 45 min with mindfulness breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation techniques, practising meditation, and guided imagery technique. The study findings illustrated that reduction of perceived stress among female breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy with (t = 2.2463) (P = 0.0306) at the P < 0.05; furthermore, there is one socio-demographic variable which had association with perceived stress that is history of psychiatric illness (χ 2 = 14.1176) (P = 0.0009) and others had no association with perceived stress. MBI was an effective therapy for reducing the perceived stress of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Balance Between a Realm of Possibilities and a Void of Emptiness: A Study on the Effect of Quarter-Life Crisis on Self-Esteem &amp; Academic Performance among College Students

In today’s time college students while entering adulthood experience a plethora of stressors. At the same time, they attempt to become comfortable with new things and adapt to the real world after the protective environment of school. Self-esteem and academic performance are very critical during this period as quarter-life crises tend to have an effect and shape students in different ways. A substantial body of studies shows results where self-esteem and academic performance are correlated to quarter-life crises among college students. The current research aims to study the effect of the quarter-life crisis on self-esteem &amp; academic performance. The participants were informed about the study and the questionnaires were filled out using Google Forms. Each participant was thanked for their cooperation. Standardised Psychological Tests were used to measure the quarter-life crisis, self-esteem, and academic performance among 31 college students ranging from 18-25 years of age. The results found a significant negative relationship between self-esteem and quarter-life crisis. No significant relationship was found between other variables. It is recommended to college students that they spend time doing their favourite activities, spend time with their loved ones and adopt coping mechanisms along with mindfulness and meditation techniques so that they can power through the crisis in front of them. The students need to be able to feel confident and not doubt themselves or let any critical situation negatively affect their self-esteem.

"Diluting Its Value as a Word by Applying It to Everything": A Qualitative Study Exploring Perspectives and Practices of Mindfulness Practitioners.

The aim of this research was to explore the perspective, language, description, and practices of practitioners who identify as using mindfulness techniques for a range of health and clinical conditions. This study was guided by a qualitative descriptive methodology. Mindfulness practitioners from a variety of backgrounds that included medical, allied health, complementary and alternative medicine, and traditional Buddhism from across Australia were invited to share their perspectives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom, telephone, and face-to-face which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were thematically analysed. Sixteen mindfulness practitioners from Australia self-nominated to participate in this study. Overall, the interviews revealed similarities, differences and even disagreements between participants from the different modalities regarding mindfulness. Participants from similar disciplines also reported differing perspectives and nuanced opinions. Differences appeared to stem from both participant background, training, and the overall aims of their practice. This research highlights the complexities of what constitutes mindfulness. This study has highlighted, across a broad cohort, that for mindfulness practitioners, their beliefs, aims, and practices are varied and influenced by a range of factors including their ideological perspectives. While the diversity and broad application of mindfulness may be one of its strengths, it may also be its weakness as its value may be diluted due to plurality of understanding and multiplicity in use. This requires careful and considered actions from mindfulness stakeholders.

Increasing the Efficiency of Lifestyle Medicine Counseling: A Visual Approach.

Description Too much to counsel on, too little time? We would like to present a unique and innovative perspective on lifestyle medicine counseling through the lens of a homemade flyer, designed to bridge the gap between conventional health care practices and personalized, holistic well-being. In the promising field of health care humanities, the homemade lifestyle medicine flyer serves as a tangible manifestation of individual agency in promoting health and vitality. The flyer encapsulates a diverse range of self-care practices, dietary insights, and mindfulness techniques, emphasizing the inherent connection between mind, body, and spirit in one's health journey. This double-sided document highlights the significance of empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health journey. Included are a broad range of tips for building a solid health and well-being foundation, as well as a QR code with resources to make those changes happen. Patients may understand that they need to eat healthy foods and spend time outdoors but may not know how best to implement those changes in their area. Although there is limited time for the average office visit, something as simple as a visual aid can go quite far in creating ripples of change beyond the clinic. As a take-home document, it can become an opportunity to share and empower others in the patient's own sphere of influence as well. The flyer acts as a tangible artifact, becoming a conduit for fostering a sense of community engagement, encouraging dialogue, and promoting shared experiences in the pursuit of well-being.

Efficacy of Martial Arts in Higher Education Affecting Students’ Psychosocial Behavior and Academic Performance

Martial arts, rooted in Chinese martial arts traditions, provides an avenue for cultural appreciation. In higher education, exposure to martial arts can enhance students' understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural practices; martial arts offer an alternative and culturally rich approach to physical education in higher learning institutions, diversifying the options available for students seeking physical activity beyond conventional sports. This paper draws the following conclusions: (1) The efficacy of martial arts in higher education is contingent on thoughtful program design, addressing individual differences, and recognizing the broader impact on students' psychosocial behavior and academic experiences. (2) The practice of martial arts forms and mindfulness techniques contributes to emotional balance, positively impacting the mental resilience necessary for academic success. (3) Martial arts education instills discipline and self-control, transcending the physical domain to influence positive behavioral outcomes. (4) Students participating in martial arts programs often exhibit increased self-discipline, responsibility, and a proactive approach to academic challenges, fostering a conducive learning environment. (5) Martial arts education's efficacy lies in its ability to promote holistic promote the holistic development. By combining physical fitness with mental focus and discipline, martial arts contribute to a well-rounded educational experience, nurturing not only academic excellence but also personal growth and character development.