The Role of Mindfulness in Reducing the Adverse Effects of Childhood Stress and Trauma
Children February 28, 2017 Robin Ortiz, Erica Sibinga 137 citations
Children exposed to adverse experiences may suffer stress and trauma linked to poorer health in adulthood. Mindfulness interventions reduce depression, anxiety, and trauma-related symptoms, and improve coping, mood, and quality of life in general and trauma-exposed adults. Studies in children and youth show mindfulness improves mental, behavioral, and physical outcomes. High-quality, structured mindfulness instruction may mitigate negative effects of childhood stress and trauma, improving short- and long-term outcomes and potentially reducing poor adult health. More research is needed to optimize youth mindfulness programs and study long-term outcomes into adulthood.