The effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Intolerance of Uncertainty and Anxiety Sensitivity among Individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Abstract

<p class="a"><span lang="EN-US">The Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is one of the most chronic and detrimental disorders and it is considered a common disorder in childhood and adolescence. Furthermore, this disorder is associated with many problems in the health domain. As such, this study attempted to gauge the impact of mindfulness-based stress reduction on intolerance of uncertainty and anxiety sensitivity among students with generalized anxiety disorder. Therefore, it was attempted to run a quasi-experimental research, including a pre-test, a post-test and a control group, among high schools of Robat Karim in Tehran province. Having used the purposive sampling method, 30 students diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, intolerance of uncertainty and high anxiety sensitivity were selected. Then, they were randomly assigned to experimental (15 students) and control groups (15 students). Consequently, the mindfulness program was introduced to the experimental group in 8 sessions and the control group received no treatment. It should be noted that groups were assessed before and after treatment with generalized anxiety scale, anxiety sensitivity and intolerance of uncertainty. The results of analysis of covariance showed that mindfulness-based stress reduction programs significantly reduced the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, anxiety sensitivity and intolerance of uncertainty. Since mindfulness reduces the levels of two key components of generalized anxiety disorder, namely intolerance of uncertainty and anxiety sensitivity, it seems appropriate to make use of this program in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.</span></p>

Intolerance of Uncertainty and Mindfulness as Determinants of Anxiety and Depression in Female Students

“…This corroborates previous findings where higher levels of mindfulness, whether defined as a trait or skill that can be cultivated, mean fewer mental health problems [22]. Furthermore, Alimehdi et al [16] found that mindfulness-based stress reduction programs decreased the symptoms of GAP, but also IU and anxiety sensitivity, its two key components. The relevance of mindfulness in overall well-being is clearly supported by prior studies, but also with current research.…”

“…One construct that emerged as one of the protective factors for the development of many psychological disorders, and is extensively examined in recent studies, is mindfulness [16,17]. Commonly defined as the state of attention and awareness in the present moment, it found its way into the western world, although it is rooted in the teachings of Buddha [18].…”

“…Reperceiving is a meta-mechanism that helps a person disengage from everyday dramas and simply stand back and witness them [21]. Mindfulness has been shown to have a beneficial effect on numerous negative states and psychological health problems [16,22], and is negatively associated with IU [23]. When it comes to academic settings, mindfulness has been shown to have a positive impact on both the academic and personal level [24,25].…”

The Effects of Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction Group Therapy on Anxiety, Depression, Stress, and the Intolerance of Uncertainty in Infertile Women

“…Concerning the effectiveness of MBSR on IU in this group, the current research results suggested no effects of the provided treatment on IU in the investigated participants. This finding was consistent with those of previous research [22]. However, they were inconsistent with the results of Vered Miriam [23] and Lee [24].…”

“…Furthermore, clinical observations highlighted that IU plays an essential role in increasing worry and rumination [21]. Concerning the effectiveness of MBSR on IU in this group, the current research results suggested no effects of the provided treatment on IU in the investigated participants.…”