Effects of the original zentangle method on older adults with depressive symptoms a randomized waitlist-controlled trial

Abstract

Objectives : Depressive symptoms are common among older adults and many of them did not seek for professional help. Although Zentangle has been widely implemented in service centers for older adults in many societies, very limited empirical study has been conducted on the effects of this method. This study aims to evaluate the effects of Zentangle on community-dwelling older adults with depressive symptoms. Methods : A randomised waitlist-controlled trial of Zentangle was conducted. Forty-six community-dwelling older adults with mild to moderate depression were recruited and randomly assigned to a six session Zentangle group or a waitlist control group. The effects were examined by comparing the participants who received a six-week Zentangle intervention with those in the waitlist control group. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Self-compassion Scale – Short form (SCS-SF) and other mental health outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-intervention and six-week follow-up. Results : Repeated measure ANOVA revealed significant Time x Group effects for depression (F (2, 88) = 21.29, p < .001) and self-compassion (F (2, 88) = 18.50, p < .001) with a large net effect size. Six-week follow-up indicated that such improvements were sustained. Conclusion : This study provides preliminary support that the Zentangle programme is an effective alternative treatment approach for older adults with mild to moderate depression. The original Zentangle method can reduce depressive symptoms and cultivate self-compassion. Further research is necessary to expand our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of how the original Zentangle method works. Trial registration : ISRCTN66410347. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-023-04536-x.

Exploring Zentangle as a virtual mindfulness-based art intervention for people with serious mental illness

“…In addition, the Zentangle Method was designed in a flexible and accepting manner and promoted positive feelings such as gratitude and self-accomplishment to help participants overcome negative feelings of self-criticism and failure. These results align with the findings of recent studies investigating Zentangle, which have consistently indicated notable enhancements in self-compassion and positive affect (33,34,54). This suggests that engaging in Zentangle fosters a sense of self-compassion, allowing individuals to be more understanding and kind to themselves, while also promoting an overall positive emotional state.…”

“…Using the waitlist-controlled method, Chan and Lo were able to demonstrate significant improvements in depressive symptoms and self-compassion among older adults with depression who participated in the Zentangle group. The improvements were noted as both immediate and maintenance effects at the 6-week follow-up ( 33 ).…”

A nursing intervention based on the Zentangle® method: Experiences of patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder

“…The abovementioned improvements in physical and mental well-being occur when an individual shifts their attention and awareness from symptoms (both psychological and emotional) and focus on an alternate activity [ 29 ], similar to what study participants experienced primarily on a psychological level, also mentioned by Chan et al. in their research [ 30 ].…”