The theoretical and empirical basis for meditation as an intervention for PTSD.
Ariel J Lang, Jennifer L Strauss, Jessica Bomyea, Jill E Bormann, Steven D Hickman, Raquel C Good, Michael Essex
Behavior modification November 1, 2012 DOI: 10.1177/0145445512441200 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractMeditation-based approaches for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are widely used, yet rigorous research on their effectiveness is scarce. This review examines three types of meditative practices—mindfulness, mantra, and compassion meditation—and discusses how they might reduce PTSD symptoms and improve quality of life. The empirical evidence is very limited but shows some promise, suggesting that further evaluation of meditation as a treatment for PTSD is justified.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Interventions | Mindfulness Mantra Compassion meditation |
| Key finding | Empirical evidence of the efficacy of meditation for PTSD is very limited but holds some promise. |
Abstract
In spite of the existence of good empirically supported treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), consumers and providers continue to ask for more options for managing this common and often chronic condition. Meditation-based approaches are being widely implemented, but there is minimal research rigorously assessing their effectiveness. This article reviews meditation as an intervention for PTSD, considering three major types of meditative practices: mindfulness, mantra, and compassion meditation. The mechanisms by which these approaches may effectively reduce PTSD symptoms and improve quality of life are presented. Empirical evidence of the efficacy of meditation for PTSD is very limited but holds some promise. Additional evaluation of meditation-based treatment appears to be warranted.