The effects of mindfulness-based interventions in medical students: a systematic review

Abstract

The number of studies on the effects of mindfulness on healthcare professionals is increasing. The main aim of this study was to collate the quantitative results of original studies analyzing the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on a variety of outcomes in medical students. We also analyzed how the study design and characteristics of the intervention affect the results, and identified qualitative effects of mindfulness interventions. A literature search was performed in different databases in June 2020. Original articles meeting the following criteria were included: (1) at least 50% of the participants were medical students, (2) included a mindfulness intervention, (3) analyzed any outcome relating to mindfulness intervention, (4) peer-reviewed (5) written in English. Eventually, 31 articles including 24 different samples were included. Over half of the studies were RCTs. In over half of the studies, the intervention was 4- to 10-week original Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction or Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy or a modification of these. In general, satisfaction with the interventions was good. Based on a meta-analysis, after the intervention, the intervention group had statistically significantly fewer symptoms of stress and distress and had higher mindfulness than the controls. The beneficial effects persisted in follow-ups over months or years. Both long and shorter courses and courses with and without face-to-face sessions were effective. Both controlled and uncontrolled studies had statistically significant results. Qualitative results revealed potential factors behind the quantitative effects. The number of studies on mindfulness interventions in medical students has increased drastically. Mindfulness-based interventions seem to offer a good possibility to enhance medical students’ well-being.

The role of a mindful movement-based program (Movimento Biologico) in health promotion: results of a pre-post intervention study

“…In fact, other studies on the same target population, namely young adults, have mostly investigated mindfulness-based interventions that gave priority to the mindfulness practices. Systematic reviews of studies evaluating mindfulness-based interventions in university students have shown improvements in respect to stress and mindfulness ( 81–83 ) , mental health and well-being ( 81–83 ) but also coping capacities ( 82 ).…”

The effect of mindfulness‐based interventions on mental health outcomes and wellbeing of informal caregivers of people with mental illness: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

“…Research has demonstrated that MBIs effectively contribute to the reduction of stress levels; although there are still numerous unknowns regarding the mechanisms underlying MBIs. Studies suggested that they could foster cognitive flexibility, disrupt rumination on past events and future worries, enhance self-awareness for early recognition of stress, improve stress management skills and facilitate behavioural regulation (Kaisti et al, 2023). The relevant neurobiological mechanisms suggest that stress induces a reduction in the quantity of glucocorticoid receptors (GR) within the hippocampus, as well as activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which initiates the release of glucocorticoids (GC); however, prolonged exposure to elevated levels of GC stimulation in the hippocampus leads to an intensified state of stress.…”

Influence of standardized nursing intervention combined with mindfulness stress reduction training on the curative effect in patients with acute pancreatitis

“…Mindfulness stress reduction training combines meditation, yoga and other activities, and applies psychological intervention and guidance to achieve the purpose of improving the emotional state of patients[ 7 , 17 , 18 ]. The training node is calculated by week, guiding patients to do mindfulness training step by step every week, and ensuring that the content of the previous week is reviewed and analyzed before each training, which can effectively divert their attention[ 19 , 20 ]. Here, we found that compared with the control group, the recovery time of bowel sound, ventosity and abdominal pain improvement time, venting time and cacation time of patients in the observation group were shorter, and the total incidence of complications was reduced.…”