Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for Improving Health, Quality of Life, and Social Functioning in Adults
Campbell Systematic Reviews January 1, 2012 Michael De Vibe, Arild Bjørndal, Elizabeth Tipton et al. 253 citations
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has a moderate and consistent positive effect on mental health outcomes across a wide range of adult populations, including those with somatic conditions, mild to moderate psychological problems, and community volunteers. Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of 31 randomized controlled trials involving 1,942 participants, MBSR improved anxiety, depression, and stress/distress, with effect sizes around 0.5 standard deviations. Effects on personal development, quality of life, and mindfulness were also positive, while effects on somatic health were smaller. No adverse effects were reported. Few studies examined social functioning or long-term outcomes, and effects diminished over time in most studies that included follow-up.