The Impact of Mindfulness-Based Psychoeducation on Perceived Stress, Intolerance of Uncertainty, and Cognitive Flexibility in Patients With Anxiety Disorders

The Impact of Mindfulness-Based Psychoeducation on Perceived Stress, Intolerance of Uncertainty, and Cognitive Flexibility in Patients With Anxiety Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Mindfulness-based interventions, which cultivate the capacity to remain present with difficult thoughts and emotions and to maintain psychological well-being in the face of such challenges, have been shown to facilitate positive change in individuals with anxiety disorders. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a mindfulness-based psychoeducational program on perceived stress, intolerance of uncertainty, and cognitive flexibility among individuals diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

This randomized controlled trial with pre-test, post-test, and one-month follow-up measurements was conducted with individuals who applied to the Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic at Aydın Atatürk State Hospital and were diagnosed with anxiety disorders. A total of 50 participants were included in the study and were randomly assigned to groups (Experimental: 25; Control: 25). The experimental group underwent an 8-week mindfulness-based psychoeducational program, while no intervention was provided to the control group. Research data were collected using the Personal Information Form, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (IUS-12), and Cognitive Flexibility Scale (CFS).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being literate
• Having a diagnosed anxiety disorder
• Being 18 years of age or older

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of an acute episode of the illness
• Lack of ability to engage in communication
• currently receiving another form of psychotherapy