“It's still there, but it doesn't have as big of an effect on me”: Qualitative findings on experiences of applying brief mindfulness in the context of COVID-19 anxiety
Betül Tatar, Rebeka Pazmanyova, Esther K. Papies
PsyArXiv May 21, 2022 preprint DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/r7myb (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study (focus groups with thematic analysis) |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 16 |
| Population | Non-meditator undergraduate students |
| Intervention | Brief mindfulness technique |
| Topics | Anxiety Meditation |
| Key findings | Participants described learning brief mindfulness as effortless and reported that it altered their relationship to anxiety-provoking pandemic experiences, which they came to perceive as transient. The 'waterfall' metaphor facilitated this process, though mind-wandering was a challenge. Participants reported calming effects within the collective setting and confidence in applying the technique for short-term relief in the future. |
Abstract
PurposeBrief mindfulness-based interventions have received great research attention, including in the domain of anxiety. However, quantitative studies do not provide in-depth accounts of how brief mindfulness is experienced. In this qualitative study, we explored how non-meditator undergraduate students learn brief mindfulness and apply it to anxiety-provoking aspects of COVID-19. MethodsWe conducted five focus groups (16 participants). Participants identified an aspect of the pandemic that makes them feel anxious, and engaged in a moderated discussion. They learned a brief mindfulness technique, applied it to their aspect, and engaged in another discussion. ResultsWe conducted thematic analysis, identifying five themes. Participants found learning mindfulness effortless. Brief mindfulness altered their relationship to their experiences, where they perceived anxiety-provoking aspects as transient. The metaphor of the waterfall facilitated this process, but participants experienced challenges such as mind-wandering. Participants reported calming effects of mindfulness, experiencing it within the collective setting of the study. Lastly, participants reported confidence in applying brief mindfulness in the future, particularly for short-term relief.ConclusionsOur findings illustrate various features of the process of learning and applying brief mindfulness. Understanding these features is essential for developing effective brief techniques that target distressing daily life situations, including beyond the pandemic.
Comparable studies
Other qualitative studies on anxiety, most cited first.