Mindfulness training involves intentionally focusing attention on the present. It is recommended for a range of mental health issues and has recently been rolled out as a universal intervention in schools. However, a recent set of studies with thousands of young people has shown universal interventions - the same mindfulness training for everyone - are not effective in reducing anxeity and depression. Dr. Dunning explains the evidence behind the headlines and why he remains hopeful about some use of mindfulness training. Journal article we discussed:“Do mindfulness-based programmes improve the cognitive skills, behaviour and mental health of children and adolescents? An updated meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials” by Dunning and colleagues (2022)https://ebmh.bmj.com/content/25/3/135Darren’s recommendations:Resources on mindfulness training: https://www.oxfordmindfulness.org/learn-mindfulness/resources/Losing our minds: Defining Mental Illness by Lucy Foulkes: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/57693494-losing-our-mindsHelp and support:If you are affected by any of the issues discussed in the episode, you can access support via the following links:Mix Charity helplines: https://www.themix.org.uk/get-supportMind Charity contacts: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/for-children-and-young-people/useful-contacts/Samaritans contact information: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.scienceorfiction.co.uk

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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