Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
08:25
Polar Histogram Visualization of Acute Stress Disorder Scale Scores for Comprehensive Clinical Assessment
Published on: December 6, 2024
Loving-kindness meditation for posttraumatic stress disorder: a pilot study
David J Kearney1, Carol A Malte, Carolyn McManus
1VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Department of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA. david.kearney@va.gov
Journal of Traumatic Stress
|July 30, 2013
Summary
Loving-kindness meditation may reduce symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression in veterans. This practice enhanced self-compassion and mindfulness, showing promising results for mental health support.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Mind-Body Medicine
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly impacts veterans' mental health.
- Existing treatments for PTSD may have limitations or side effects.
- Loving-kindness meditation (LKM) is a contemplative practice focused on cultivating compassion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of LKM for veterans with PTSD.
- To assess the impact of LKM on PTSD symptoms, depression, self-compassion, and mindfulness.
Main Methods:
- An open pilot trial was conducted with veterans diagnosed with PTSD.
- Participants engaged in a 12-week LKM course involving repetitive positive intention phrases.
- Assessments of PTSD, depression, self-compassion, and mindfulness were administered at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- High attendance rates (74%) indicated good feasibility and acceptability.
- Significant increases in self-compassion (large effect size) and mindfulness (medium to large effect size) were observed.
- A large effect size reduction in PTSD symptoms and a medium effect size reduction in depression were found at 3-month follow-up.
- Enhanced self-compassion mediated the observed reductions in PTSD and depression symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Loving-kindness meditation appears to be a safe and acceptable intervention for veterans with PTSD.
- LKM demonstrated potential for reducing PTSD and depressive symptoms, possibly through enhanced self-compassion.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore the specific contribution of LKM compared to other treatments.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises following exposure to traumatic events such as natural disasters, forced displacement, or severe accidents. It significantly impairs individuals' ability to cope with daily activities and disrupts their emotional and psychological equilibrium.
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
02:40The Scientific Method
Research is what makes the difference between facts and opinions. Facts are observable realities, and opinions are personal judgments, conclusions, or attitudes that may or may not be accurate. In the scientific community, facts can be established only using evidence collected through empirical research.
01:27Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Stress is a multifaceted response to events perceived as challenging or threatening, highlighting physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral reactions. Physically, stress can lead to fatigue, sleep disruptions, and various health issues such as frequent colds, chest pains, and nausea. Emotionally, it can manifest as anxiety, depression, irritability, and anger triggered by both minor and major life events. Cognitively, it may result in difficulty in concentration, memory, and...