The Impact of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Elementary School Students Anxiety Level

Abstract

Anxiety is a pervasive problem among children and adolescence and if left untreated, it is often associated with elevated rates of comorbidity with other psychiatric disorders. There is growing evidence for effective early interventions for children and adolescents dealing with anxiety, particularly in the school setting. There is growing research that mindfulness-based interventions to be beneficial for children and adolescents to enhance self-regulation and coping, aspects of executive functioning central to managing symptoms related to stress. This current study focused on the impact of a mindfulness-based intervention on fifth grade students’ anxiety levels. Nine participants participated in a six-week mindfulness-based intervention that provided education on anxiety and mindfulness, and mindfulness exercises. Participants were given a pre and post-test to measure the effects of the mindfulness intervention. Results suggested that there was statistically significant change in anxiety levels.