Critical Review of the Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on Stress and Health-related Quality of Life (QOL)

Song, Yeoungsuk; Lindquist, Ruth; Choi, Eun Ju

Abstract

PURPOSE
In numerous studies, MBSR programs have been shown to reduce stress and improve health-related QOL. Although MBSR programs have been shown to be beneficial, its effects have not been well-determined among Korean populations in clinical nursing practice. The purpose of this review was to describe the effects of MBSR on stress and health-related QOL so that the potential benefits of this intervention may be evaluated for wider application in Korea.
METHODS
Articles published in peer-reviewed journals in the English or Korean language up to 2009 were reviewed; 14 articles met the inclusion criteria for this review and there were no Korean papers.
RESULTS
MBSR groups were found to have significantly reduced stress outcomes relative to non-MBSR groups in 6 of 11 studies. In regards to health-related QOL, participants of the MBSR programs had increased scores after MBSR intervention relative to control groups in 5 of 7 studies.
CONCLUSION
MBSR programs was effective in decreasing stress and increased the health-related QOL in the majority of studies reviewed. MBSR merits study in Korean patients to determine whether similar salutary patient outcomes may be obtained.