The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Depressive Symptoms and Their Relationship to Interoceptive Awareness: A Systematic Review.
Alpha psychiatry December 1, 2025 Samantha Knep, Alice Shires 1 citation
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) derived from established programs such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and Mindfulness-Integrated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy significantly reduce depressive symptoms and improve interoceptive awareness (IA) in adults. Across six studies with 646 participants, IA partially mediated the relationship between MBI participation and depression relief, though only one study directly tested mediation. Effect sizes varied. The review notes limitations including a small number of eligible studies, heterogeneity, and mixed evidence quality. Future research should standardize IA measurement and explore its mediating role further.