Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Urban Youth

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the general acceptability and to assess domains of potential effect of a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected and at-risk urban youth. Methods: Thirteen-to twenty-one-year-old youth were recruited from the pediatric primary care clinic of an urban tertiary care hospital to participate in 4 MBSR groups. Each MBSR group consisted of nine weekly sessions of MBSR instruction. This mixed-methods evaluation consisted of quantitative data-attendance, psychologic symptoms (Symptom Checklist 90-Revised), and quality of life (Child Health and Illness Profile-Adolescent Edition)-and qualitative data-in-depth individual interviews conducted in a convenience sample of participants until interview themes were saturated. Analysis involved comparison of pre-and postintervention surveys and content analysis of interviews. Results: Thirty-three (33) youth attended at least one MBSR session. Of the 33 who attended any sessions, 26 youth (79%) attended the majority of the MBSR sessions and were considered ''program completers.'' Among program completers, 11 were HIV-infected, 77% were female, all were African American, and the average age was 16.8 years. Quantitative data show that following the MBSR program, participants had a significant reduction in hostility ( p ¼ 0.02), general discomfort ( p ¼ 0.01), and emotional discomfort ( p ¼ 0.02). Qualitative data (n ¼ 10) show perceived improvements in interpersonal relationships (including less conflict), school achievement, physical health, and reduced stress. Conclusions: The data suggest that MBSR instruction for urban youth may have a positive effect in domains related to hostility, interpersonal relationships, school achievement, and physical health. However, because of the small sample size and lack of control group, it cannot be distinguished whether the changes observed are due to MBSR or to nonspecific group effects. Further controlled trials should include assessment of the MBSR program's efficacy in these domains.

School-Based Mindfulness Instruction: An RCT

“…Furthermore, our RCT used specific strategies to ensure the delivery of high-quality program content and process in both study arms: instructors were trained, experienced, and dedicated mindfulness and health education instructors who brought expertise regarding program content and delivery; the mindfulness curriculum was previously tested and had been adapted from the evidence-based MBSR program 8,10 ; communication between program and Elev8 staff was supported by weekly meetings; and the community partnership functioned effectively to navigate challenges that arose related to logistics, school administration, and implementation.…”

“…4 In response to the pervasive exposure to stress and trauma, we have developed and previously tested a program of mindfulness instruction intended to reduce the negative impacts of stress and toxic stress among urban youth. Based on Jon Kabat-Zinn's well-studied mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program for adults, 5,6 we had previously adapted and evaluated the MBSR program for use with urban youth in clinic [7][8][9] and school settings. 10 In particular, we conducted a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of our school-based 12-week MBSR program compared with a 12-week active control (health education) program at a small middle school for city-dwelling boys.…”

Mind–Body Approaches to Treating Mental Health Symptoms Among Disadvantaged Populations: A Comprehensive Review

“…The identified studies provide preliminary evidence that mindfulness-based interventions are efficacious in reducing mental health symptoms [50][51][52][53][54][55] and improving general health, [56][57][58][59][60] daily functioning, interpersonal relationships, and overall quality of life. 55,[61][62][63][64][65] Manuscripts included in the review are presented in Table 1.…”

Complementary and Integrative Methods in Fibromyalgia

“…A number of trials have assessed various forms of mindfulness meditation, with promising results in outcomes that range from pain to physical function to tender points. (35)(36)(37)(38) Sibinga et al (39) have developed an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program tailored to urban youth, involving didactic instruction, experiential meditation instruction, and group discussions.…”