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Mindfulness-based stress reduction lowers psychological distress in medical students
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Mindfulness-based stress reduction lowers psychological distress in medical students

Steven Rosenzweig, Diane K Reibel, Jeffrey M Greeson, George C Brainard and Mohammadreza Hojat
Teaching and learning in medicine, v 15(2), pp 88-92
Apr 2003
PMID: 12708065

Abstract

BACKGROUNDMedical students confront significant academic, psychosocial, and existential stressors throughout their training. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is an educational intervention designed to improve coping skills and reduce emotional distress.PURPOSEThe purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the MBSR intervention in a prospective, nonrandomized, cohort-controlled study.METHODSSecond-year students (n = 140) elected to participate in a 10-week MBSR seminar. Controls (n = 162) participated in a didactic seminar on complementary medicine. Profile of Mood States (POMS) was administered preintervention and postintervention.RESULTSBaseline total mood disturbance (TMD) was greater in the MBSR group compared with controls (38.7 +/- 33.3 vs. 28.0 +/- 31.2; p < .01). Despite this initial difference, the MBSR group scored significantly lower in TMD at the completion of the intervention period (31.8 +/- 33.8 vs. 38.6 +/- 32.8; p < .05). Significant effects were also observed on Tension-Anxiety, Confusion-Bewilderment, Fatigue-Inertia, and Vigor-Activity subscales.CONCLUSIONMBSR may be an effective stress management intervention for medical students.

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#3 Good Health and Well-Being

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Web of Science research areas
Education, Scientific Disciplines
Health Care Sciences & Services
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