Effectiveness of Deconstructive Meditative Practices in Improving Mental Health and Well-being: A Systematic Review

A systematic review of 18 studies (2457 participants) found that deconstructive meditative practices, such as Vipassana and insight meditation, may improve depression, anxiety, stress, and psychological well-being in adults. Mindfulness, non-attachment, and insight were identified as possible mechanisms of change. Results varied by study design and intervention duration, and the limited number of randomized controlled trials and methodological heterogeneity restrict generalizability. The evidence suggests these practices can be effective, but higher-quality studies are needed to confirm clinical applications.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Deconstructive meditative practices (DMPs) aim to transform the perception of the self by fostering an understanding of its constructed and impermanent nature through self-inquiry. This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of DMPs in improving mental health and psychological well-being among adults. Method Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science until October 2025. Eligible studies included randomized and non-randomized trials of DMPs (e.g., Vipassana and insight meditation). The primary outcomes addressed mental health and psychological well-being, while secondary outcomes included psychological processes related to DMPs, such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, and detachment. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I tools. Results Eighteen studies ( n = 2457) met the inclusion criteria. Most reported significant improvements in depression, anxiety, stress, and psychological well-being, although findings varied depending on study design and intervention characteristics. Mindfulness, non-attachment, and insight were identified as possible mechanisms of change. Preliminary patterns suggest that variability in effects may be partially explained by contextual factors such as intervention duration and type of design. However, methodological heterogeneity and the limited number of randomized controlled trials limit the generalizability of the results. Conclusions The results suggest that DMPs may be effective in improving mental health and psychological well-being. The methodological quality of studies needs to be improved to strengthen the evidence and inform clinical applications. This review can serve as a guide to drive future studies on DMPs. Preregistration This review was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024559841).