Mindfulness vs Medication: New Anxiety Treatment Study

New research from Georgetown Medical Center reveals that mindfulness meditation for anxiety may be as effective as prescription medication. This groundbreaking study offers hope for those seeking alternative anxiety treatments.

Key Findings: Mindfulness vs Escitalopram

• Study participants: 276 adults with untreated anxiety disorders
• Mindfulness group: 8-week MBSR program with daily 45-minute meditation
• Medication group: Daily 10-20mg escitalopram (generic Lexapro)
• Results: Both groups showed comparable anxiety reduction after 8 weeks

Online Mindfulness for Depression Prevention

A University of St. Andrews pilot study examined web-based mindfulness programs for college students with depression history:

1. Program structure:

   • 8-week online MBSR course
   • Included meditation, yoga, and emotion regulation techniques
   • Daily mindfulness practice encouraged

2. Key outcomes:

   • Improved emotion regulation skills
   • Better reappraisal of past events
   • Reduced depressive symptoms

Mindfulness Benefits for Children During COVID

MIT researchers found:

• Study group: 163 children (ages 8-10)
• Findings:
  • Higher mindfulness correlated with better mental health
  • Reduced pandemic-related stress and anxiety
  • Fewer depressive symptoms

Why This Matters for Anxiety Treatment

These studies suggest:

• Mindfulness-based stress reduction can be equally effective as medication
• Online mindfulness programs show promise for mental health
• Mindfulness training for children builds emotional resilience

While more research is needed, these findings expand non-pharmaceutical anxiety treatment options for adults and children alike.