Overview
This lecture reviews a study investigating the sustained effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on stress, anxiety, depression, and brain activity (via EEG) in college students, especially in low-middle income countries.
Background & Motivation
- Mental health issues among university students in low-middle income countries (LMICs) are highly prevalent.
- Limited access to affordable interventions increases the demand for cost-effective stress-reduction strategies.
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a meditation-based program shown to help with stress reduction and self-regulation.
Study Design & Methods
- 49 students (18–22 yrs) were recruited and assigned to MBSR (Test) or Control groups; 41 completed the study.
- The MBSR group attended an 8-week program based on Palouse Mindfulness curriculum.
- Data collection included three time points: pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 2 months later (sustained).
- Psychological measures: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-42).
- Cognitive stress tasks: Mental arithmetic and Stroop color task were used during EEG recording.
- EEG was analyzed for spectral power in theta, alpha, and beta bands across multiple brain regions.
Key Results
- MBSR group showed a significant reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression in both immediate and sustained follow-up.
- Control group showed no significant change in psychological scores.
- MBSR led to increased alpha band power in frontal, temporal, and occipital regions, especially during stress tasks and at rest.
- Alpha power increase was sustained at two-month follow-up and correlated with lower anxiety and depression.
- Minor, less consistent changes were seen in theta and beta power.
Interpretation & Limitations
- MBSR is effective for long-term reduction of negative emotional states and improving stress resilience in students.
- Increased alpha power suggests improved relaxation and emotional regulation.
- Effects were more pronounced at follow-up, possibly due to continued meditation practice.
- Study limitations: small sample size, single institution, and time commitment required may hinder participation.
Key Terms & Definitions
- MBSR — Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, an 8-week meditation and mindfulness training program.
- LMICs — Low and Middle Income Countries.
- EEG — Electroencephalogram, a method to record electrical brain activity.
- Alpha Band Power — EEG frequency (8–13 Hz) linked to relaxation and stress reduction.
- PSS — Perceived Stress Scale, measures perceived stress levels.
- DASS-42 — Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale, measures negative emotional states.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Continue or begin regular mindfulness meditation practice post-intervention for lasting effects.
- Review the Palouse Mindfulness curriculum or similar MBSR materials.
- Complete any assigned readings on EEG analysis or mindfulness interventions in student populations.