Intervention Study on the Impact of Internet-Based Mindfulness Meditation on Depression and Anxiety among University Students

Both offline and online mindfulness meditation interventions reduced depression and anxiety in college students over eight weeks, with the offline group showing the most improvement. The online intervention, though slightly less effective, proved accessible and scalable. Results suggest internet-based mindfulness can support mental well-being in university populations.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This study explores the effectiveness of internet-based mindfulness meditation interventions in mitigating depression and anxiety symptoms among college students. A total of 72 participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: offline mindfulness intervention, online mindfulness intervention, and a control group. The intervention lasted for eight weeks, during which participants' mental health was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Findings revealed that both interventions significantly reduced depression and anxiety levels, with the offline group exhibiting the most pronounced improvement. The online intervention, while slightly less effective, demonstrated considerable potential, particularly in terms of accessibility and scalability. The study highlights the need for future research to refine online intervention techniques by incorporating greater opportunities for interaction, thereby enhancing participant engagement and intervention efficacy. These findings provide empirical support for the broader application of internet-based mindfulness practices in promoting mental well-being among university populations.