The effect of a one-time mindfulness intervention on body and mind in healthy adolescents using multimodal measurements.

Summary

A single mindfulness intervention showed no immediate effects on psychological well-being in a study of 78 healthy adolescents aged 12-19. While heart rate and heart rate variability did not significantly change, participant mood, stress, and state mindfulness were influenced by trait mindfulness levels. Notably, age impacted heart rate and state mindfulness. Strong correlations emerged between trait mindfulness and anxiety or depression scores. Despite the lack of immediate benefits, findings suggest that mindfulness may foster resilience among adolescents over time, warranting further exploration.

Abstract

Mindfulness-based interventions can improve psychological well-being and reduce symptoms of mental burden, including among adolescents. Relationships between basic mindfulness (trait mindfulness) and the immediate effects of a single mindfulness intervention have not been thoroughly researched, especially in adolescents. In this study, we aimed to elucidate these aspects by using a multimodal approach-measuring the effect of a single mindfulness intervention on both subjective and physiological parameters. A total of 78 healthy adolescents (12-19 years of age, 50% female) were assigned to either a mindfulness or an active control group. Before and after the interventions, subjective parameters (mood, stress, and state mindfulness) were assessed using bipolar visual analogue scales. Physiological parameters (heart rate and heart rate variability) were measured before and during the interventions. Participants also completed the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS-D) with the subscale "mindfulness" as an assessment of trait mindfulness, and the State-Trait Anxiety-Depression Inventory (STADI). Our results showed no significant interactions between time and intervention, either subjectively or physiologically. For heart rate, we found a main effect of time. For all subjective parameters, we observed a main effect of trait mindfulness. Age was a relevant factor for heart rate and state mindfulness, suggesting age effects. We also observed strong correlations between trait mindfulness, trait anxiety, and depression scores. A single mindfulness intervention had no immediate observable effects in our healthy adolescent sample, and possible reasons for this finding are discussed. Nevertheless, the present data show the potential for increased resilience through mindfulness in adolescence.

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