Examining a Web-based Mindfulness Intervention on University Students’ Well-being During COVID-19

Examining a Web-based Mindfulness Intervention on University Students’ Well-being During COVID-19 PDF Author: Victoria Lecker
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Student mental health and well-being services are an increasing concern in higher education. This exploratory study examined students’ experiences in a four-week online mindfulness program. Four brief mindfulness-based practices were introduced: breathing and movement meditation, mindful eating, body scan, and loving-kindness meditation. Fourteen participants completed online questionnaires to explore their experiences of mindfulness and how this intervention impacted their well-being. Results of thematic analyses suggest that there were variations in participants’ experiences and participants’ preferred mindfulness sessions. The sample consisted of 14 participants. Seven participants withdrew from the study while seven participants persisted throughout the intervention. Twelve participants reported beneficial outcomes. Findings suggest that the participants who completed the intervention reported an improvement in their ability to cope with stress, negative emotions and increased their self-awareness. These findings are congruent with those of other online interventions, and the intervention served as an effective foundation for exposing students to mindfulness. This study has implications for cost-effective mental health care delivery, given the current shortages in resources on university campuses and in communities throughout Canada.

Examining a Web-based Mindfulness Intervention on University Students’ Well-being During COVID-19

Examining a Web-based Mindfulness Intervention on University Students’ Well-being During COVID-19 PDF Author: Victoria Lecker
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Student mental health and well-being services are an increasing concern in higher education. This exploratory study examined students’ experiences in a four-week online mindfulness program. Four brief mindfulness-based practices were introduced: breathing and movement meditation, mindful eating, body scan, and loving-kindness meditation. Fourteen participants completed online questionnaires to explore their experiences of mindfulness and how this intervention impacted their well-being. Results of thematic analyses suggest that there were variations in participants’ experiences and participants’ preferred mindfulness sessions. The sample consisted of 14 participants. Seven participants withdrew from the study while seven participants persisted throughout the intervention. Twelve participants reported beneficial outcomes. Findings suggest that the participants who completed the intervention reported an improvement in their ability to cope with stress, negative emotions and increased their self-awareness. These findings are congruent with those of other online interventions, and the intervention served as an effective foundation for exposing students to mindfulness. This study has implications for cost-effective mental health care delivery, given the current shortages in resources on university campuses and in communities throughout Canada.

The Human Face of Mental Health and Mental Illness in Canada, 2006

The Human Face of Mental Health and Mental Illness in Canada, 2006 PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 208

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Book Description
The human suffering associated with mental illness is something that more than one in five Canadians face at some point in their life.

Feasibility of a Virtual Mindfulness-Based Intervention Modified with Accessibility Features for College Students with Chronic Health Conditions and Disabilities

Feasibility of a Virtual Mindfulness-Based Intervention Modified with Accessibility Features for College Students with Chronic Health Conditions and Disabilities PDF Author: Lauren Hope Conder
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
There have been few published studies examining mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) with college students with health conditions and no published studies examining MBIs in college students with disabilities. Additionally, there is a gap in the literature examining the feasibility of virtual MBIs for this population, and there are no studies examining the feasibility of adding accessibility features (e.g., closed captioning, image descriptions, chair yoga) to virtual MBIs. Koru mindfulness is an MBI that has been feasible with recruitment/enrollment, attrition, intervention processes, and acceptability of the intervention and significantly decreased symptoms of depression, anxiety, perceived stress, and sleep problems for emerging adults and college students when implemented in-person (Greeson et al., 2014, Weis et al., 2021). In an RCT of the Koru MBI delivered virtually during the Fall 2020 semester, researchers found that compared to a waitlist control group, Koru increased mindfulness and physical activity, and decreased anxiety, stress, worry, rumination, and other mood difficulties (Mirabito & Verhaeghen, 2022). Virtually administered versions of Kour had no significant differences in depression or sleep difficulties, which differs from the in-person Koru studies (Mirabito & Verhaeghen, 2022; Smit & Stavrulaki, 2021). In this way, more studies examining the feasibility of virtual Koru interventions are needed. The current study modified the Koru mindfulness intervention to include accessibility features for college students with mental and physical conditions/disabilities for virtual implementation of the intervention based on the ORBIT model of behavioral treatment (Powell et al, 2021). Based on the refinement phase of the ORBIT model, the aim of this study was to examine the feasibility of a virtual format of the Koru mindfulness intervention refined for college students with mental and physical disabilities by integrating accessibility features. Specific elements of feasibility examined in this study: recruitment and enrollment, participant adherence to the intervention, attrition, intervention processes, and participant acceptability of the intervention. With regard to recruitment and enrollment, the recruitment duration, group formation was not sufficient to meet the minimum group size of four participants, recruitment methods were not sufficient to reach the target sample size, and there were barriers to recruitment and enrollment that need to be addressed. The findings indicate corrective actions are needed to increase recruitment and enrollment to reach the target sample size needed for a clinical trial, increase adherence to the intervention, more adequately assess attrition in assessment completion, and further modify study protocol and intervention elements based on suggestions provided by participants. There are a variety of corrective actions needed to address these areas. For recruitment and enrollment, corrective actions include increasing recruitment duration, increasing the number of groups offered and varying days/times they are offered and possibly exploring asynchronous options, continuing to involve disability support services to aid in recruitment, recruiting from more than one university, making the eligibility survey shorter and moving some questions from the eligibility survey into the pre-survey, eliminating the confirmation step, and allowing individuals to participate as long as they commit to attending at least three out of four group sessions. Corrective actions for adherence include allowing participants who missed a session to attend a different group that week or attend a makeup session with others who also missed a session could increase connection with others during mindfulness practices. Recommendations related to attrition include increasing flexibility by eliminating the confirmation step and including a gift card for the completion of the pre-survey. Recommendations with regard to intervention processes include reviewing how the Koru app differs from the current study (e.g. no accessibility features, includes practices that are not mentioned in the current study, and does not include some current study features like chair yoga), potentially eliminating the Koru app and using accessible study materials instead, having cameras on at the beginning of each session to ensure privacy and confirm that there are no others in the room with the participant. After these changes are made, randomized controlled trials with larger samples from multiple universities may be implemented to determine efficacy using phase three of the ORBIT model of behavioral treatments (Powell et al., 2021). During future interventions, quantitative measures will be used not only to examine assessment protocols and attrition, but also to look for symptom change over time. Additionally, during future interventions, it is likely that COVID-19 will no longer be considered a pandemic, but rather an endemic. This could influence the feasibility of certain study processes. Because of this continuing to examine qualitative feedback via Koru evaluations and focus groups will be helpful, as well as continuing to examine participant acceptability and feedback on virtual and accessibility features.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy PDF Author: Stuart J. Eisendrath
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 3319298666
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 243

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Book Description
This book brings together a cutting-edge selection of the most current applications of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), giving clinicians as well as researchers a concise guide to current and future directions. Each chapter begins with in illustrative case study to give readers an example of how MBCT would be used in the clinical setting, followed by an overview of the condition, the theoretical rationale for using MBCT, modifications of MBCT for that disorder, evidence for MBCT use. Chapters also discuss practical considerations of MBCT, including patient selection, home practice, group size, format, and facilitator training. Written by some of the world’s leading physicians using MBCT, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy: Innovative Applications is of great value to psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and therapists.

Evaluating an Online Mental Health Outreach Program for University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Evaluating an Online Mental Health Outreach Program for University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic PDF Author: Laurianne Bastien
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

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Book Description
"The unprecedented levels of mental health difficulties reported by university students make it difficult for university mental health services to keep up with the increasing demand. As a result, leading organizations have indicated a need for preventative programs aimed at enhancing mental health resilience. Thus, the overarching goal of this thesis was to evaluate the Stress and Coping: Online Outreach Program (SCOOP), an online mental health outreach program for university students. The current thesis consists of two manuscripts. The main objective of Manuscript 1 was to explore the acceptability, satisfaction with, and effectiveness of SCOOP as well as to evaluate differences between mental health service provider (MHSP)-led versus peer-led versions of the program. Participants were 217 university students (Mage = 20.40 years, SD = 1.96; 79.7 % females) randomly assigned to SCOOP (MHSP-led (n = 69) or peer-led (n = 73)) or a wait-list comparison group (n = 75). Over the course of 4 weeks, students in the SCOOP groups were asked to watch three brief MHSP-led or peer-led skills-building videos with equivalent content and had access to a resource library of resilience building strategies. All participants completed online self-report measures of well-being (i.e., stress, coping self-efficacy, social support, social connectedness, mindfulness, and quality of life) at baseline, post-program and 1 month follow-up. Training satisfaction was evaluated with the SCOOP group at post-program. Results from a series of chi-squares revealed that there were no differences between the MHSP-led and peer-led groups on any of the satisfaction measures. Additionally, a series of two-way mixed ANOVAs revealed no significant differences (p > .05) between any of the groups (MHSP/peer/comparison) on any of the reported well-being outcomes over time. Surprisingly, a main effect of time revealed that all students improved on coping self-efficacy, social support, mindfulness, and quality of life (social relationship domain) from baseline to post, as well as improved on quality of life (environment domain) from baseline to follow-up. It is possible that the lack of significant group differences for program effectiveness were due to the plethora of mental health resources offered through university services to the student body and reduction in previously reported stressors (i.e., academic stressors) at the height of the pandemic. While no group differences were found on well-being outcomes, participants reported high rates of acceptability and satisfaction with SCOOP, which provides promising support for the use of online mental health outreach programs in university settings. Manuscript 2 aimed to explore students' perspectives regarding the SCOOP, specifically examining positive and negative impressions of the program. Results from a qualitative content analysis revealed that positive impressions of the online program included the following categories: (1) Variety and Diversity of Resources/Strategies; (2) Brevity, Simplicity, and Accessibility; (3) Value and Appeal; (4) Relatability; and (5) Encouragement of Reflection and Awareness Around Own Mental Health and Well-being. For negative impressions of the online program two main categories were identified: (6) Need for Additional Support on Getting Started and Accountability; and (7) Need for Additional Demonstration/Explanation of Strategies in Videos. Overall, findings from the current thesis provide preliminary evidence for SCOOP as an acceptable online mental health outreach program for university students regardless of service delivery type. Implications of this thesis include best practice guidelines for future online mental health program provision and development. Limitations as well as considerations for future research will be discussed"--

EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF A MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION PROGRAM ON STUDENT WELL-BEING AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY

EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF A MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION PROGRAM ON STUDENT WELL-BEING AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY PDF Author: KHRITISH SWARGIARY
Publisher: GOOGLE
ISBN:
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 23

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Book Description
This study investigated the impact of a 12-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program on undergraduate students' stress levels, anxiety, overall well-being, and academic performance. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative assessments using standardized questionnaires and qualitative interviews. The study was conducted at a local university in Arizona, United States, utilizing a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design with 100 participants. Results from the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7) demonstrated significant reductions in stress and anxiety levels among MBSR participants at the post-intervention assessment. Furthermore, improvements in overall well-being were evident based on the WHO-5 Well-being Index. Analysis of Grade Point Average (GPA) scores revealed statistically significant improvements in both the experimental and control groups, with slightly higher gains observed in the experimental group. Qualitative insights from interviews highlighted positive experiences with the MBSR program, including enhanced stress and anxiety management and positive impacts on academic performance. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of mindfulness interventions in educational settings, emphasizing their potential to support student well-being and academic success.

Are We Here Yet? Pilot Study of a Self-directed Web-based Mindfulness Intervention as an Adjunct to an Undergraduate Academic Course

Are We Here Yet? Pilot Study of a Self-directed Web-based Mindfulness Intervention as an Adjunct to an Undergraduate Academic Course PDF Author: Tricia A. Teeft
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

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Book Description
Mindfulness-based interventions have become increasingly popular in Western culture. A broad and expanding base of literature has supported the efficacy of mindfulness practice with numerous psychological and physical health conditions. Research has begun to focus on cost-effective and convenient ways to introduce these skills to undergraduate students, who often experience elevated rates of psychological difficulties. The current research was a pilot study investigating the effect of a 12-week self-directed web-based mindfulness intervention on undergraduate students enrolled in a course on metacognition. Pre-intervention measures were completed to evaluate self-reported levels of mindfulness and psychological wellness. Students in the intervention group completed mindfulness activities (meditation, body scan, yoga, or unstructured mindfulness activities), while students in the control group engaged in the course material without additional mindfulness content. After each activity, intervention participants submitted a reflection online which detailed the activity, number of minutes spent practicing, and thoughts, feelings, or sensations which arose. Post-intervention, the same tests were re-administered in addition to questionnaires evaluating engagement. Participants in the intervention condition reported decreased state and trait anxiety levels at post-test, while the control group reported no change in state and anxiety and an increase in trait anxiety. When the intervention group was examined along with frequency of practice (total number of sessions), there was a significant decrease in trait anxiety, obsessive compulsive subscale scores (SCL-90) and an increase in total mindfulness (FFMQ). In contrast, total number of minutes of mindfulness practice contributed to decreased Depression and Hostility subscale scores (SCL-90). Despite difficulties with enrollment, engagement, and attrition (reflecting general barriers in mindfulness research and practice), the current pilot contributes recommendations for ways to effectively tailor interventions to a specific population and methods to increase engagement. Doing so may allow more people to gain individually-relevant benefits from mindfulness practice while decreasing the perceived barriers.

Global Mental Health

Global Mental Health PDF Author: Sabine Bährer-Kohler
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 3319591231
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 254

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Book Description
This international survey defines mental health as a basic human right, and tracks the emergence of mental health prevention and promotion as a global priority. Locating mental illness within a cycle of negative causes and effects affecting human quality of life, the editors identify modern policy barriers to promotion/prevention initiatives, particularly the favoring of the biomedical health model by major stakeholders. The book’s selection of successful programs from diverse countries displays a lifespan approach, emphasizing the centrality of interdisciplinary educational settings in providing primary and secondary prevention and promotion interventions, and the ongoing fight against missing financial investigations, discrimination and stigma. Together, these papers make a forceful argument for rights- based responses to worldwide mental health needs as part of the commitment toward global human rights and long-term development goals. Included in the coverage: · Mental health priorities around the world. · Social determinants of mental health. · Mental health and stigma: aspects of anti-stigma interventions. · Promoting social and emotional wellbeing and responding to mental health problems in schools. · The promotion and delivery of mental health services in primary care settings. · Economic evaluation of mental health promotion and mental illness prevention. Bringing to the fore public health concerns that are too often marginalized, Global Mental Health is necessary reading for health professionals, health and clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, medical sociologists, and policymakers.

Novel Applications of Virtual Communities in Healthcare Settings

Novel Applications of Virtual Communities in Healthcare Settings PDF Author: El Morr, Christo
Publisher: IGI Global
ISBN: 1522529594
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 271

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Book Description
Virtual communities have gained popularity in many growing fields and have continued to expand into healthcare environments. Analyzing the impact these communities have can help provide more effective methods to support patients and community members. Novel Applications of Virtual Communities in Healthcare Settings is a crucial scholarly reference source that examines the challenges virtual communities can face, as well as the advantages they provide to members of healthcare organizations. Featuring pertinent topics that include evaluation frameworks, disaster management, knowledge translation, and user engagement, this book is ideal for medical practitioners, academicians, students, and healthcare researchers that are interested in taking part in the latest discussions of virtual communities within medical fields.

Short-term Counselling in Higher Education

Short-term Counselling in Higher Education PDF Author: David Mair
Publisher: Routledge
ISBN: 1317614062
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 238

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Book Description
As demand for counselling from students across Higher Education (HE) increases year on year, counselling services are continually seeking to explore creative ways of working under the pressure that results from this rise in client numbers. One of the most frequent responses to increased demand is limiting the number of sessions that individual students may have. Until Short-term Counselling in Higher Education, there has been no text which provides a contextual, theoretical and practical input to this evolving way of working. This book explores constructive ways of providing very short-term counselling within a Higher Education context. Using case-studies, and employing up-to-date statistics from the sector, the book gives readers a clear understanding of the nature of the professional challenges, and offers ways of addressing these, including managing waiting lists, developing policies to facilitate timely intervention, and understanding the limitations of what short-term therapy can offer. Short-term Counselling in Higher Education explores the implications of working in Higher Education counselling services in this very short-term way, and as such it will be an essential resource for counsellors, heads of counselling services and student services managers in Higher Education, helping to find ways of delivering effective short-term interventions within existing counselling services.