Module 5: Mindfulness
Abhishek Jaywant, Lauren E. Oberlin, Stephanie Cherestal, Christina Bueno Castellano, Victoria M. Wilkins, Dora Kanellopoulos
Coping After COVID-19: Cognitive Behavioral Skills for Anxiety, Depression, and Adjusting to Chronic Illness November 1, 2023 DOI: 10.1093/med-psych/9780197699416.003.0006 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Practical guide or manual Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Mindfulness |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key points | The chapter proposes that mindfulness, defined as purposeful, present-moment, non-judgmental attention, can help clients with persistent COVID-19 symptoms manage emotional distress, anxiety, and depression, and emphasizes at-home practice through culturally relevant activities or mobile apps. |
Abstract
Abstract This chapter introduces mindfulness as a technique for assisting clients with persistent COVID-19 symptoms to manage their emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. Mindfulness is defined as paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally. It is not necessarily about relaxation or clearing the mind but rather a process of bringing conscious, deliberate attention and awareness to moment-to-moment experiences. Clients can practice mindfulness by engaging in culturally relevant activities or by using mobile apps outside of the therapy session. Mindfulness techniques have been incorporated into evidence-based psychotherapies for psychiatric conditions and programs for managing chronic illness. The importance of at-home practice of mindfulness techniques is emphasized.