Effects of online mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on anxiety symptoms in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background An increasing number of studies have documented the effectiveness on various types of face-to-face and online mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in reducing anxiety among general population, but there is a scarcity of systematic reviews evaluating evidence of online MBIs on anxiety in adults. Therefore, we examined the effects of online mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on anxiety symptoms in adults and explored the moderating effects of participant, methods, and intervention characteristics. Methods We systematically searched nine databases through May 2022 without date restrictions. Inclusion criteria were primary studies evaluating online mindfulness-based interventions with adults with anxiety measured as an outcome, a comparison group, and written in English. We used random-effects model to compute effect sizes (ESs) using Hedges’ g, a forest plot, and Q and I2 statistics as measures of heterogeneity; we also examined moderator analyses. Results Twenty-six primary studies included 3,246 participants (39.9 ± 12.9 years old). Overall, online mindfulness-based interventions showed significantly improved anxiety (g = 0.35, 95%CI 0.09, 0.62, I2 = 92%) compared to controls. With regards to moderators, researchers reported higher attrition, they reported less beneficial effects on anxiety symptoms (β=-0.001, Qmodel=4.59, p = .032). No other quality indicators moderated the effects of online mindfulness-based interventions on anxiety. Conclusion Online mindfulness-based interventions improved anxiety symptoms in adult population. Thus, it might be used as adjunctive or alternative complementary treatment for adults. However, our findings must be interpreted with caution due to the low and unclear power of the sample in primary studies; hence, high-quality studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Effects of mindfulness on test anxiety: a meta-analysis

“…In prior meta-analyses, researchers studied the effects of MBIs on psychological distress and well-being, and attrition rates in university students and adolescents’ stress, depression, and anxiety in school settings ( Fulambarkar et al, 2023 ; Alrashdi et al, 2024 ). There are other meta-analysis about mindfulness intervention effects on anxiety disorders, and anxiety symptoms in clinical and non-clinical samples ( Zhihong et al, 2018 ; Fumero et al, 2020 ; Reangsing et al, 2023 ; Williams et al, 2023 ). Researchers reported that MBIs significantly reduced anxiety in both clinical and non- clinical samples in the youth population and reduced overall anxiety in adult clinical and non-clinical populations.…”

To behave or not (un)ethically? The meditative effect of mindfulness on statistics anxiety and academic dishonesty moderated by risk aversion

“…Mindfulness elements, such as awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance of one's moment-to-moment experience, are considered potential antidotes to Page 6 of 18 Eshet et al International Journal for Educational Integrity (2024) 20:6 common psychological distress, such as anxiety (Keng et al 2011). Mindfulness training is acknowledged as cognitive training, as it prompts individuals to comprehend the interplay between their thoughts, emotions, and anxiety-related behaviours (Reangsing et al 2023). Through this practice, individuals gain heightened awareness and the ability to self-regulate their thoughts and emotions (Dark-Freudeman et al 2022).…”