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Article
Mindfulness and physical disease: a concise review
Current opinion in psychology (2019)
  • Jeffrey M Greeson, Rowan University
  • Gabrielle R Chin, Rowan University
Abstract
Many of today's most common, chronic, and costly diseases-from high blood pressure, to chronic pain-are related to stress. Mindfulness, considered a state, a trait, and a training, might help treat or prevent stress-related physical symptoms. A concise review of current scientific evidence shows that both higher levels of trait mindfulness as well as mindfulness training are associated with better psychological well-being, coping, and quality of life. Effects on objective measures of disease, however, are often non-significant or await replication. Larger trials with active control groups, clear diagnostic criteria, objective outcome measures, and longer-term follow-up are needed to generate better quality evidence. Yet, many studies do support integrating mindfulness into health care as part of self-care and disease management.
Publication Date
August 1, 2019
DOI
10.1016/j.copsyc.2018.12.014
Citation Information
Jeffrey M Greeson and Gabrielle R Chin. "Mindfulness and physical disease: a concise review" Current opinion in psychology Vol. 28 (2019) p. 204 - 210
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/jeffrey-greeson/36/