Effects of preventive online mindfulness interventions on stress and mindfulness: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Preventive Medicine Reports March 9, 2017 Wasantha P. Jayawardene, Md, PhD, David K. Lohrmann, PhD, MS Ryan G. Erbe, et al.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of eight randomized controlled trials found that preventive online mindfulness interventions significantly reduce perceived stress in non-clinical populations, with a medium effect immediately after the intervention and a large effect at follow-up. Mindfulness showed a small but significant improvement post-intervention and a medium effect at follow-up. The effects were strongest for middle-aged individuals. The interventions, typically simplified versions of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction lasting 2 to 12 weeks, were delivered to adult volunteers from academic, workplace, or community settings. The findings suggest that online mindfulness programs offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to in-person interventions, particularly for busy populations with digital access.