The Impact of a Brief Embedded Mindfulness-Based Program for Veterinary Students.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Mental Health Interventions
• Psychological Well-being

Background:

• University students, including those in veterinary medicine, frequently experience elevated stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have demonstrated efficacy in reducing psychological distress among university populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of an embedded mindfulness-based intervention on the well-being of veterinary science students.
• To investigate whether regular mindfulness practice mitigates increases in stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A mindfulness-based intervention was integrated into a core veterinary science unit for 64 participants.
• Student well-being was monitored from the start to the end of the semester.
• Analysis compared outcomes based on the frequency of mindfulness practice.

Main Results:

• Overall symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression increased from the beginning to the end of the semester for the cohort.
• The increase in symptoms was primarily driven by students with pre-existing mild to severe symptoms.
• Students practicing mindfulness once a week or more reported significantly lower depression and anxiety than those practicing less frequently.

Conclusions:

• Regular mindfulness practice may serve as a protective factor for veterinary students with existing mild symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Embedding mindfulness programs early in veterinary curricula can foster adaptive coping mechanisms and enhance resilience.
• While immediate benefits may vary, consistent mindfulness engagement supports long-term academic and professional well-being.