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

Qiuqiang Zheng, Weiwei Yang

International Journal of Education and Humanities October 23, 2024 DOI: 10.54097/9mfb3q15 (opens in new tab)

Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed
Sample size 72
Population College students
Intervention Mindfulness meditation
Duration 8-week intervention
Topics Anxiety Depression Meditation
Key findings Both offline and online mindfulness interventions significantly reduced depression and anxiety symptoms, with the offline group showing the greatest improvement.

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.

Comparable studies

Other randomized controlled trials on anxiety, most cited first.

Study Year Design Participants
Prevention of relapse/recurrence in major depression by mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Recovered recurrently depressed patients 2000 Randomized controlled trial n = 145
Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial Cancer patients with life-threatening diagnoses and symptoms of depression and/or anxiety 2016 Randomized controlled trial n = 51
Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial Patients with cancer-related anxiety and depression 2016 Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial n = 29
Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having substantial and sustained personal meaning and spiritual significance Hallucinogen-naïve adults reporting regular participation in religious or spiritual... 2006 Double-blind study n = 36
Pilot Study of Psilocybin Treatment for Anxiety in Patients With Advanced-Stage Cancer Adults with advanced-stage cancer and anxiety 2010 Double-blind, placebo-controlled study n = 12

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