The effect of mindfulness meditation on depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Scientific reports – August 30, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
Mindfulness meditation significantly reduces depressive symptoms, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. An analysis of 26 randomized controlled trials involving diverse participants revealed a strong effect size of -1.14, indicating substantial improvement in mental health. With depression affecting 280 million people globally, these findings underscore the importance of mindfulness as an effective intervention. Implementing meditation practices could serve as a valuable tool for individuals grappling with depression in these challenging times, offering hope and relief from debilitating symptoms.
Abstract
Currently, 280 million people worldwide experience depression, ranking it third in the global burden of disease. The incidence of depression has risen due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making it essential to examine evidence-based practices in reducing depressive symptoms during this unprecedented time. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to analyze randomized controlled trials during the COVID-19 pandemic that evaluated the effect of mindfulness meditation on depressive symptoms in individuals with depression. Four databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus) were searched in November 2023 using search terms including meditation, mindfulness, depression, and depressive symptoms. The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software (Cochrane Collaboration). A random model and Standard Mean Difference analysis with 95% CIs were used for continuous variables. The systematic review included 26 RCT studies. The meta-analysis showed significant effects of mindfulness meditation interventions (SMD = - 1.14; 95% CI - 1.45 to - 0.83; P < 0.001) in reducing depressive symptoms compared to comparison groups. The findings suggest a positive effect of mindfulness meditation on depressive symptoms in individuals with depression during the COVID-19 pandemic.