Enhancing mental well-being: a mixed method study on the immediate effect of guided group meditation on depression, stress, anxiety and anger
Sheetal Goyal, Prasanna Krishna Bg, V.V.V. Pradeep Sastry, Biswajit Paul, Megha Tiwari
The Journal of Spirituality in Mental Health April 9, 2025 DOI: 10.1080/19349637.2025.2487848 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Mixed methods study Qualitative Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 212 |
| Population | Participants attending guided group meditation sessions, both virtual and in-person |
| Intervention | Guided group meditation |
| Topics | Anxiety Depression Meditation |
| Key points | The authors report statistically significant differences on all measured parameters (depression, stress, anxiety, and anger) following guided group meditation, with virtual and in-person attendees experiencing similar positive effects. Qualitative data suggested changes in thoughts, emotions, and spiritual experience. They conclude that group meditation can enhance mental well-being and maintain psychological health. |
Abstract
ABSTRACT Our study investigated the effects of guided group meditation sessions on the psychological parameters of depression, stress, anxiety and anger. The present study of 212 participants followed a mixed methods approach. Data was collected using standardized psychological scales and qualitative interview pre- and post-group meditation. Findings revealed a statistically significant difference on all the parameters. Results indicated that both the virtual and in-person attendees experienced positive effects of the sessions equally. Qualitative data suggested that meditation resulted in changes in thoughts, emotions, and spiritual experience. We concluded that group meditation can enhance mental well-being and maintain psychological health.