Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for improving health, quality of life and social functioning in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

A review of randomized trials finds that Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a moderately well-documented method for helping adults improve health and cope with stress and life challenges. The review compared MBSR to inactive control groups (waitlist or usual care) and to active alternative interventions. The authors suggest MBSR shows benefit, but note that new research should improve trial methods to address common pitfalls in mind-body intervention studies.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This review summarizes all studies that compare the effect of a MBSR program to a control group intervention, in which the participants had been randomly allocated to be in either the MBSR group or a control group. The review summarizes the results in two categories. First, where the effect of the MBSR program was compared to an inactive group (either a wait list group or one receiving ordinary care also received by the MBSR group). Second, where MBSR was compared with an alternative active group intervention. Based on this review it is reasonable to consider MBSR a moderately well-documented method for helping adults improve their health and cope better with the challenges and stress that life brings. New research should improve the way the trials are conducted addressing the pitfalls in research on mind-body interventions.