A five-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program integrated into an academic course improved psychological health among 119 undergraduate students. Participants in the MBSR group showed significant increases in mindfulness and self-compassion compared to a control group. However, no significant reduction in trait anxiety was observed, suggesting that longer programs may be needed to address psychological distress.
A randomized clinical trial is testing Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Pain and Suicide (MBCT-P/S) in 76 veterans who reported suicidal ideation and chronic pain. The therapy combines elements from two established programs, MBCT-Pain and MBCT-Suicide. Recruitment was completed faster than expected, supporting feasibility. Baseline data showed a diverse sample with clinically severe profiles differing by condition on key suicide risk variables. The trial will assess feasibility, treatment acceptability, and outcomes at 1, 3, and 6 months, including pain, suicide risk, retention, and therapist fidelity. Results will inform a future fully-powered efficacy trial.
A brief mindfulness program for veterans with PTSD appears to improve hypothalamic-pituitary axis function, as reflected in changes in diurnal cortisol levels. Veterans who completed four weekly mindfulness sessions showed a significant reduction in their cortisol awakening response and changes in overall cortisol output compared with those receiving usual care. The findings suggest that a four-week, non-exposure-based mindfulness intervention can have a beneficial physiological impact on veterans with PTSD who may be reluctant to engage in trauma-focused treatments.