Mindfulness for Anxiety and Depression in an Outpatient Psychosomatic Medicine Clinic

Abstract

We introduced mindfulness practice to our outpatient psychosomatic medicine clinic specializing in anxiety and depression. In addition to open-ended single-session classes, we offer various courses including Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy. Interventional research has shown that regular mindfulness practice increases dispositional mindfulness and reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms. Furthermore, patients report that mindfulness practice promoted non-reactive attitudes, focused attention, and a calm state of mind. In the discussion, we address various considerations for practicing mindfulness in the clinical setting and future developments in research and clinical practice.