By Stacey Brake
Recently, a research study was published that did something that had never been done before.
Mindfulness Meditation has been taught and studied for quite a while. It has been found effective for the treatment of anxiety.
The thing that had never been done before was comparing the results of mindfulness meditation to a commonly used anti-anxiety medication. In this research, people who suffered from anxiety but were not receiving treatment were split into two groups. One group was given Lexapro as treatment. The other group was taught mindfulness meditation and participated in regular guided practice.
So, what did they find?
After 8 weeks, they measured the anxiety levels of both groups and found that BOTH groups had decreases in their anxiety of about 20%.
A TWENTY percent decrease in anxiety in 8 weeks is significant. There have been debates for years about which is better, medication or natural remedies.
What does this all mean?
First of all. .. realizing that mindfulness meditation is equally as effective as Lexapro doesn't mean we will soon throw away medications as a treatment option.
Of course, you may ask .. .what would happen if participants did BOTH? Perhaps that will be research done in the future.
However, since physicians are now required to screen for anxiety, this will be another option that patients will have for treatment. Many people don't want to start with anxiety medication because of the potential side effects. So a natural alternative will be appealing.
Also, there is going to be a push to have Mindfulness Meditation covered by insurance.
More options for mental health care? I'm in full support!
Hope your week is filled with joy!
PS ... You can find a course on Mindfulness Meditation under the Courses Link.
I'd love to know what you think! Have you tried meditation? What other ways have you found to reduce your own anxiety?