The Effect of Varying Levels of Depressive Symptoms on Mindfulness Acquisition: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Research and clinical theory increasingly suggest that mindfulness may be an effective clinical intervention for a myriad of mental illnesses. However, there is debate in the field as to whether or not mindfulness-based programs may be beneficial for treatment of active depression. Those cautioning against the use of mindfulness-based programs suggest that the cognitive demands of a meditation practice may be too difficult for those with acute depressive symptoms. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether differences exist between individuals with varying levels of depressive symptoms in the ability to acquire mindfulness skills. Data comes from a two-week, longitudinal study in which undergraduates, with a range of depressive symptoms, engaged in a breath-focused mindfulness exercise every other day. Self-reported trait mindfulness, state mindfulness, depressive symptoms, rumination, and sleep quality were measured at various time points over the two-week study period. Multilevel modeling was used for main analyses. Results suggest individuals with more acute, depressive symptoms may be able to successfully acquire trait mindfulness skills, as well as receive an adjunctive benefit such as a reduction in depressive symptoms over time, and reduced rumination and increased sleep quality. Limitations and future directions are addressed.