Mindfulness-Based Treatment for People With Severe Mental Illness: A Literature Review

Abstract

This article provides a synthesis of current findings from existing mindfulness-based treatment interventions and their relevance to individuals with severe mental illness (SMI). A mindfulness-oriented approach to coping with SMI goes beyond symptom management and exemplifies key recovery principles such as self-determination and resilience. Although previous studies and critical reviews provide evidence of a relationship between mindfulness training and positive mental health and physical outcomes for various populations, this is the first critical review to systematically examine the efficacy of these methods in treating SMI. Evidence suggests that this approach shows promise in reducing symptom-associated distress, increasing feelings of self-efficacy, and reducing psychiatric hospitalizations for individuals with psychotic disorders. This review also reveals several ongoing challenges in the field including the need for more rigorously controlled studies, further operationalization of the construct of mindfulness and evidence of construct validity, and greater insight into the specific mechanisms of change underlying mindful awareness. Overall, this innovative approach warrants further exploration, having been used as a component of existing evidence-based practices or provided in a stand-alone manner to promote adaptive coping and wellness among individuals with SMI.