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Mirabito G, Verhaeghen P. Remote delivery of a Koru Mindfulness intervention for college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:897-904. [PMID: 35427456 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2060708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether a remote, online, group-based mindfulness intervention results in effects during the COVID-19 pandemic. PARTICIPANTS 111 college students: 58 in the intervention group, 53 in a waitlist control group. METHODS Randomized control trial (RCT) using a 4-week Koru Mindfulness program, investigating pre-to-posttest changes in the intervention group compared to time-yoked control participants. RESULTS Average effect size for all 21 variables measured was 0.48. The intervention produced significant benefits for mindfulness, rumination, worry, mood, stress, anxiety, three out of six aspects of psychological wellbeing (Autonomy, Environmental mastery, Self-acceptance) and physical activity. No significant effect was noted for depression (d = 0.33) or sleep (d = -0.13), and three aspects of psychological wellbeing (Personal growth, Positive relationships, Purpose in life). CONCLUSIONS A remote, online, group-based mindfulness program yielded benefits on stress, anxiety, and mood in college students, even under the dire circumstances of a pandemic.
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Gallo GG, Curado DF, Machado MPA, Espíndola MI, Scattone VV, Noto AR. A randomized controlled trial of mindfulness: effects on university students' mental health. Int J Ment Health Syst 2023; 17:32. [PMID: 37833796 PMCID: PMC10571349 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-023-00604-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of mental health disorders is common in the university population, and mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) seem to be effective in addressing them in different contexts. Thus, this study investigated the impact of an 8-week MBI adapted to university students from the Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBSR) on different symptoms related to mental health problems, specifically symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and insomnia. METHODS University students (n = 136) were randomized into MBI group (n = 71) or wait-list group (n = 65). All participants completed self-administered questionnaires before and after the intervention, and the experimental group answered questionnaires weekly during intervention. Generalized mixed models were used to assess the effects of the intervention. RESULTS There were improvements in the symptoms of stress (B = 5.76, p < 0.001), depression (B = 1.55, p < 0.01) and insomnia (B = 1.35, p = 0.020) from the beginning of the intervention to the final assessment when it was compared to the control group. No effect was found in respect of trait anxiety. The MBI was found to be effective in reducing important symptoms related to university students' mental health, possibly grounding further research on the intervention's potential of preventing the development of mental disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION The research was registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC) - number RBR-63qsqx, approved at 09/16/2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Gonçalves Gallo
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, NEPSIS - Núcleo de Pesquisa em Saúde de Uso de Substâncias - MBRP Brasil - Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisa e Formação em Prevenção de Recaídas Baseada em Mindfulness (MBRP), Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, 04023-062, SP, Brazil.
| | - Daniela Fernandez Curado
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, NEPSIS - Núcleo de Pesquisa em Saúde de Uso de Substâncias - MBRP Brasil - Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisa e Formação em Prevenção de Recaídas Baseada em Mindfulness (MBRP), Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Mayra Pires Alves Machado
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, NEPSIS - Núcleo de Pesquisa em Saúde de Uso de Substâncias - MBRP Brasil - Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisa e Formação em Prevenção de Recaídas Baseada em Mindfulness (MBRP), Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Marília Ignácio Espíndola
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, NEPSIS - Núcleo de Pesquisa em Saúde de Uso de Substâncias - MBRP Brasil - Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisa e Formação em Prevenção de Recaídas Baseada em Mindfulness (MBRP), Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Vitor Villar Scattone
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, NEPSIS - Núcleo de Pesquisa em Saúde de Uso de Substâncias - MBRP Brasil - Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisa e Formação em Prevenção de Recaídas Baseada em Mindfulness (MBRP), Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Regina Noto
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, NEPSIS - Núcleo de Pesquisa em Saúde de Uso de Substâncias - MBRP Brasil - Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisa e Formação em Prevenção de Recaídas Baseada em Mindfulness (MBRP), Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, 04023-062, SP, Brazil
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St Martin MW, Vidic Z, Oxhandler R. Exploring the impact of a mindfulness meditation class on college student stress levels and quality of life. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022:1-7. [PMID: 36328779 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2133962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study explored the differences in perceptions of stress levels and quality of life amongst college students enrolled in mindfulness meditation classes and those enrolled in an introductory holistic health class. Participants: 236 undergraduate students at a mid-sized university completed coursework and surveys. Methods: One-credit mindfulness meditation classes and an introductory holistic health class, serving as the control group, were offered over the course of one semester. Pre- and posttest questionnaires on stress and quality of life were administered to the participants. Results: Students enrolled in mindfulness meditation classes began with higher stress levels and lower perceptions of their quality of life compared to the control group. The mindfulness meditation class participants ended with both significantly lower stress levels and higher quality of life scores then the control group. Conclusions: Offering mindfulness meditation classes for credit may help promote positive mental health and well-being for students on a college campus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W St Martin
- Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
| | - Zeljka Vidic
- Health Performance and Health Education, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
| | - Richard Oxhandler
- Integrative Holistic Health and Wellness, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
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Haun JN, Alman AC, Jean-Baptiste E, Melillo C, McMahon-Grenz J, Paykel JM. Delivery of Complementary and Integrative Health Using Virtual Health Resources: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE 2022; 28:851-861. [PMID: 35819410 PMCID: PMC9700349 DOI: 10.1089/jicm.2021.0458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Complementary and integrative health (CIH) modalities promote overall health and well-being and can be beneficial for individuals with a range of conditions. Traditionally, CIH has been delivered in person. COVID-19 created a need to identify sustainable remote delivery options to assure access to CIH while practicing public health recommendations. This scoping review maps the opportunities and challenges to remotely delivered CIH. Materials and methods: A scoping review was conducted between June 2020 and October 2020 using the following search engines: PubMed, Academic Search Premier, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Reviews, and the Cochrane Clinical Trial Collections. Search results investigating remote CIH delivery were restricted to articles written in English, published after 1990. Results: Of the 10,884 articles identified, after review for content and methods, 330 articles were included. Most articles were randomized controlled trials (n = 170), applied mindfulness (n = 203), and targeted mental and behavioral health conditions (n = 182). Interventions were primarily delivered through mobile applications (n = 151) and web-based platforms (n = 86). Most commonly reported barriers were adherence (n = 24), resource requirements (e.g., time and space) (n = 23), and technology-related issues (n = 21). Although most studies did not report facilitators (n = 217), most commonly reported facilitators were social and technologic supports, accessibility, usability, perceptions, and rewards. Participant outcomes measured were broad and included movement (n = 88), stress (n = 68), and pain (n = 54). Intervention characteristic outcomes most often measured were satisfaction and usability (n = 5). Conclusions: This scoping literature review identified many articles addressing remote delivery of CIH, but few reporting on the implementation of remotely delivered CIH. Findings suggest remotely delivered CIH, specifically mindfulness and meditation-based modalities, is a viable treatment option for a diverse range of health conditions. Feasibility studies and larger sample sizes are recommended to strengthen the scientific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolie N. Haun
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Amy C. Alman
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Esther Jean-Baptiste
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Christine Melillo
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Julie McMahon-Grenz
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
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Wu J, Ma Y, Zuo Y, Zheng K, Zhou Z, Qin Y, Ren Z. Effects of Mindfulness Exercise Guided by a Smartphone App on Negative Emotions and Stress in Non-Clinical Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 9:773296. [PMID: 35155341 PMCID: PMC8825782 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.773296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have acknowledged that mindfulness exercise guided by a smartphone app has a positive impact on mental health and physical health. However, mindfulness guided by a smartphone app on mental health is still in its infancy stage. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis evaluating the effect of mindfulness intervention guided by a smartphone app on negative emotions and stress in a non-clinical population with emotional symptoms. Methods We searched major databases, namely, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang, to identify all of the relevant studies published in English or Chinese from their inception until November 9, 2021. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed with Cochrane risk-of-bias bias assessment tool. Two researchers independently conducted document retrieval, study selection, data extraction, and methodological quality evaluation. Result A total of eight studies were included in the study, with 574 subjects (experimental group: 348; control group: 226). A random effects model was selected to combine effect sizes. The results of the meta-analysis showed that mindfulness exercise guided by a smartphone app reduced negative emotions [standardized mean difference (SMD) = −0.232, 95% CI: −0.398 to −0.066, p = 0.006], depressive symptoms (SMD = −0.367, 95% CI: −0.596 to −0.137, p = 0.002), and anxiety symptoms (SMD = −0.490, 95% CI: −0.908 to −0.071, p = 0.022). Conclusions The findings indicate the potentially beneficial effect of mindfulness exercise guided by a smartphone app on symptoms of depression and anxiety among individuals in a non-clinical population with emotional symptoms. Considering the small number and overall methodological weakness of the included studies and lack of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the results should be interpreted with caution, and future rigorously designed RCTs are warranted to provide more reliable evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlong Wu
- Department of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yudan Ma
- College of Teaching Common Courses, Shanwei Polytechnic, Shanwei, China
| | - Yifan Zuo
- Department of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kangyong Zheng
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Yifan Qin
- Department of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhanbing Ren
- Department of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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Cohen KA, Graham AK, Lattie EG. Aligning students and counseling centers on student mental health needs and treatment resources. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022; 70:724-732. [PMID: 32432973 PMCID: PMC7677163 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1762611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
ObjectiveTo recognize gaps between students' expectations of college counseling centers and centers' current practices and to identify strategies to improve care from both clinicians and students. Participants: As part of an ongoing study on mobile technologies for stress management, we gathered data from counseling center clinicians and students at two large Midwestern universities. Methods: Clinicians completed online questionnaires on their current practices and interest in digital mental health tools. Students and clinicians completed co-design workshops. In subsequent individual interviews, students identified barriers to care. Results: Both students and clinicians recognized a need for stress management and mental health support outside of counseling sessions. Conclusions: Students and clinicians recognize barriers to face-to-face therapy and are eager to collaborate to identify opportunities to address barriers to mental health services. We discuss digital mental health tools as a potential opportunity for support and benefits of including students in discussions of treatment resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A. Cohen
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrea K. Graham
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Emily G. Lattie
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA. .
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Levin ME, Hicks ET, Krafft J. Pilot evaluation of the stop, breathe & think mindfulness app for student clients on a college counseling center waitlist. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022; 70:165-173. [PMID: 32150519 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1728281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: College counseling centers face significant challenges meeting the mental health needs of their students and waitlists are common. Mobile apps offer a promising solution to increase access to resources while students wait for services. Methods: This pilot randomized controlled trial evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a publicly available mindfulness app. Students on a counseling center waitlist (n = 23) were randomized to use the app or not, with assessments completed over four weeks. Results: Recruitment over three semesters was slow, leading to an underpowered trial. Participants reported high satisfaction and moderate app usage. Very preliminary support was found for potential app efficacy relative to the control condition, particularly for depression, anxiety, and overall distress. Weaker, mixed effects were found for mindfulness and values processes. Conclusions: Overall, these results provide mixed findings suggesting the potential benefits, but also challenges in using a mindfulness app for students waiting to receive counseling services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Levin
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Krafft
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
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Hadler NL, Bu P, Winkler A, Alexander AW. College Student Perspectives of Telemental Health: a Review of the Recent Literature. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2021; 23:6. [PMID: 33404975 PMCID: PMC7785477 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-020-01215-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We review the recent literature regarding college student experiences with and attitudes toward telemental health (TMH). We examine their perspectives of the advantages and drawbacks to this form of mental healthcare and their willingness to engage in TMH. RECENT FINDINGS College students view TMH as convenient, accessible, easy to use, and helpful. TMH helps to overcome the barrier of stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. Despite positive reviews, many students find a lack of customization or connection to the provider to be drawbacks to some forms of TMH. Willingness to engage in TMH varies based on prior experience with mental health treatment, ethnicity, and severity of symptoms. The recent literature highlights the potential for TMH to play a key role in mental health services for college students. It also highlights some of its shortcomings, which are indicative of the continued need for in-person services. Future studies should continue to track college student perspectives toward and utilization of TMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole L Hadler
- University of Michigan Medical School, 1301 Catherine Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Paula Bu
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aaron Winkler
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Amy W Alexander
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Schultchen D, Terhorst Y, Holderied T, Stach M, Messner EM, Baumeister H, Sander LB. Stay Present with Your Phone: A Systematic Review and Standardized Rating of Mindfulness Apps in European App Stores. Int J Behav Med 2020; 28:552-560. [PMID: 33215348 PMCID: PMC8384800 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-020-09944-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mindfulness-based interventions show positive effects on physical and mental health. For a better integration of mindfulness techniques in daily life, the use of apps may be promising. However, only a few studies have examined the quality of mindfulness apps using a validated standardized instrument. This review aims to evaluate the content, quality, and privacy features of mindfulness-focused apps from European commercial app stores. METHODS An automated search engine (webcrawler) was used to identify mindfulness-focused apps in the European Apple App- and Google Play store. Content, quality, and privacy features were evaluated by two independent reviewers using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). The MARS assesses the subscales engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information quality. RESULTS Out of 605 identified apps, 192 met the inclusion criteria. The overall quality was moderate (M = 3.66, SD = 0.48). Seven apps were tested in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Most of the apps showed a lack of data security and no privacy policy. The five apps with the highest ratings are from a credible source, include a privacy policy, and are also based on standardized mindfulness and behavior change techniques. CONCLUSIONS The plethora of often low-quality apps in commercial app stores makes it difficult for users to identify a suitable app. Above that, the lack of scientific verification of effectiveness and shortcomings in privacy protection and security poses potential risks. So far, the potential of mindfulness-focused apps is not exploited in commercial app stores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Schultchen
- Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 41, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany.,Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tanja Holderied
- Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 41, Ulm, Germany
| | - Michael Stach
- Institute of Databases and Information Systems, Ulm University, James-Franck-Ring, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse B Sander
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Engelbersger Str. 41, 79085, Freiburg, Germany
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