Examining efficacy and potential mechanisms of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for anxiety and stress reduction among college students in a cluster-randomized controlled trial.
International journal of clinical and health psychology : IJCHP January 1, 2024 Oksana K Ellison, Lauren E Bullard, Gloria K Lee et al.
A 4-week mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) intervention delivered via the Sanvello smartphone app reduced trait anxiety and chronic stress in college students more than a positive control condition, with small to moderate effect sizes. The reduction in anxiety and stress was mediated by decreases in negative automatic thoughts, but not by changes in cognitive reappraisal or refocusing strategies. The app was rated as highly feasible and appropriate for this population. The findings suggest that smartphone-based MBCT could be integrated into student support programs as a first-line approach for managing anxiety and stress among first-year college students.