Trauma and mindfulness approaches for Latinx communities in the United States: A systematic review.

Abstract

Latinx communities in the United States face a unique combination of acculturative, systemic, racial, and other traumatic stresses, including adverse childhood experiences, necessitating the close examination of interventions that may act as a buffer, as well as those that promote health and well-being. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have demonstrated an impact on well-being and may play a role as a protective factor in the context of trauma and adversity. This systematic review examined 11 meta-analyses and studies on MBIs in Latinx populations with trauma. The review identified salient themes in existing research, significant gaps that still exist, and future directions for implementing effective MBIs that facilitate engagement, retention, and positive mental and physical health outcomes. Findings suggest that MBIs are feasible and acceptable for Latinx individuals; however, barriers to use need to be addressed. Empirically supported facilitators of use include offering multiple linguistic options for the intervention, providing integrative frameworks to discuss mindfulness and religion, facilitating transportation and childcare, and using culturally responsive emotion regulation techniques, guided visualizations, and storytelling. A number of research gaps remain, such as the need to examine anti-oppressive mindfulness practices to address racism, increase Latinx representation in clinical settings, employ community-engaged strategies and strength-based approaches, and use novel dissemination methods, such as digital intervention and prevention programs. Public Significance StatementMindfulness-based interventions have the potential to reduce the adverse impact of trauma among Latinxs. The findings point to culturally relevant considerations before, during, and after treatment to increase engagement and effectiveness.