Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMindfulness meditation has become widely popular and is documented to offer benefits such as stress reduction and improved sleep. However, a growing body of research indicates that a minority of practitioners may experience adverse effects, including anxiety, emotional distress, and the resurfacing of painful memories. Estimates vary, but studies suggest that up to 25 per cent of practitioners report unwanted effects, with 6 to 14 per cent in one UK study experiencing lasting issues like feeling constantly on edge. Traditional Buddhist practices, from which mindfulness originates, acknowledge that meditation can be difficult and emphasise the importance of experienced teachers and community support. Modern approaches are increasingly focusing on screening, safety protocols, and individualised support to manage potential difficulties, recognising that mindfulness is not a universal solution but remains beneficial for most. In fullMindfulness warning as some participants report ‘distressing’ adverse effectsMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
New research exposes unwanted or adverse effects of mindfulness
Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMindfulness meditation has become widely popular and is documented to offer benefits such as stress reduction and improved sleep. However, a growing body of research indicates that a minority of practitioners may experience adverse effects, including anxiety, emotional distress, and the resurfacing of painful memories. Estimates vary, but studies suggest that up to 25 per cent of practitioners report unwanted effects, with 6 to 14 per cent in one UK study experiencing lasting issues like feeling constantly on edge. Traditional Buddhist practices, from which mindfulness originates, acknowledge that meditation can be difficult and emphasise the importance of experienced teachers and community support. Modern approaches are increasingly focusing on screening, safety protocols, and individualised support to manage potential difficulties, recognising that mindfulness is not a universal solution but remains beneficial for most. In fullMindfulness warning as some participants report ‘distressing’ adverse effectsMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
