Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, UK; School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK. Electronic address: Ben.Ainsworth@southampton.ac.uk.
2 papers in the library · 52 citations · publishing 2023-2024
Digital mindfulness-based interventions can improve health outcomes but often fail because people stop using them. This scoping review of 22 qualitative studies identified three key factors affecting engagement: negative reactions to one's own practice that reduce motivation, difficulty making mindfulness a consistent habit, and reliance on others for support. The review suggests that developers should use person-based, participatory methods to improve acceptability and engagement.
A 30-day digital mindfulness programme improved well-being, reduced depression and anxiety symptoms, and these benefits were partly explained by improved attitudes toward health behaviours and stronger intentions to act. The pre-registered randomized controlled trial included 1,247 participants from 91 countries. Compared to an attention-matched control group, those who practiced mindfulness reported significantly better well-being, lower depression, and lower anxiety after one month. Improvements in well-being and depression persisted at two-month follow-up. The effects were mediated by changes in health-related attitudes and behavioural intentions, suggesting that digital mindfulness supports psychological health by shifting how people think about and intend to engage in healthy behaviours.