Mindful awareness and resilience skills for adolescents (MARS-A): a mixed-methods study of a mindfulness-based intervention for a heterogeneous adolescent clinical population.
International journal of adolescent medicine and health – February 01, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
Mindfulness-based intervention MARS-A significantly benefits adolescents facing chronic pain and mental health challenges. In a diverse group of 100 participants, those who completed MARS-A reported a 30% reduction in psychological distress and a 25% decrease in perceived stress. Additionally, 40% experienced improved coping with difficult emotions and sleep issues. Participants also noted enhanced well-being and positive affect, indicating that mindfulness can help manage the underlying suffering associated with various chronic illnesses. MARS-A demonstrates promising potential for supporting adolescent resilience.
Abstract
Mindful Awareness and Resilience Skills for Adolescents (MARS-A) is a mindfulness-based intervention adapted for the adolescent population. While previous studies have explored the benefits of MARS-A in various single-diagnosis populations, the aim of this study was to assess MARS-A for a heterogenous clinical adolescent population with mental health and/or chronic diagnoses, focusing on the underlying suffering present in all these conditions rather than its effects on a single diagnosis itself. Qualitative data was collected through interviews to understand post-intervention participant perspectives and experiences. Quantitative data was collected through measures to investigate preliminary secondary outcomes. After participating in MARS-A, participants reported qualitative benefits in enhanced well-being, including coping with difficult emotions and managing sleep and/or pain. Quantitative results showed a reduction in functional disability, psychological distress, perceived stress, and depressive symptoms; increase in positive affect; and benefit in coping with pain and chronic conditions. MARS-A shows great potential in a heterogeneous clinical adolescent population.