The Association Between Mindfulness and Perceived Stress: A Meta‐Analysis
Nicola S. Schutte, Adam J. Rock
Stress and Health July 18, 2026 DOI: 10.1002/smi.70209 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Meta-analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 24,494 |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Association psychology Perceived stress scale Facet psychology Stress linguistics Cognition Clinical psychology Cognitive appraisal |
| Key findings | Greater mindfulness is associated with less perceived stress, with a weighted effect size of r = -0.40. |
Abstract
This study consolidated the association of mindfulness with perceived stress found across studies. A meta-analysis examined the relationship between mindfulness and perceived stress in 56 samples, which included a total of 24,494 participants. The weighted effect size of r(55) = -0.40, 95% CI [-0.36, 0-44], p = 0.0001, showed that greater mindfulness was associated with less perceived stress. Studies assessing mindfulness using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale or the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire showed substantial effect sizes, as did studies assessing stress using the Perceived Stress Scale. Even though the present meta-analysis does not show causality, the results suggest a possible bidirectional relationship between mindfulness and perceived stress. The nonjudgmental awareness comprising mindfulness may facilitate an appraisal of life events and challenges that results in events and challenges as being perceived as less stressful. Lower perceived stress may free cognitive resources that promote mindfulness.