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What is the scientific evidence behind the effectiveness of mindfulness in treating clinical disorders?

Mykel Stearns

Mindfulness is a way to focus your attention on the present moment, and it has become an increasingly popular approach for treating mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. But what does the scientific evidence say about the effectiveness of mindfulness in treating clinical disorders?

Many studies have shown that mindfulness can be an effective way to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. One study found that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with these conditions. Another study showed that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) reduced the risk of relapse in people with depression.

But how does mindfulness work? Scientists believe that it helps regulate our emotions by training our brains to pay attention to the present moment without judgment. This can help us become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, so that we can observe them without getting caught up in them.

While mindfulness has been found to be helpful for many people, it's important to understand that it's not a cure-all. It's important to seek professional help if you're struggling with a clinical disorder, and to work with a trained therapist to develop a treatment plan that's right for you.

In conclusion, the scientific evidence suggests that mindfulness can be an effective way to treat clinical disorders such as anxiety and depression. By training our brains to focus on the present moment, we may be able to better regulate our emotions and improve our overall mental health. However, it's important to seek professional help and work with a trained therapist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.