Meditation and mindfulness can help some people with stress and symptoms, but they are skills rather than cures.

Brain & Mental Wellbeing - Skills & support

Meditation and mindfulness evidence

Last reviewed 3 August 2026. How we write this.

Meditation and mindfulness can help some people with stress and symptoms, but they are skills rather than cures.

Trials vary in programme, teacher contact and comparison group. Benefits are usually modest and not unique to one branded method.

Use it appropriately

Begin with short guided practice.
Expect attention to wander.
Do not use it to replace needed treatment.
Stop and seek guidance if practice worsens distress or trauma symptoms.

Consistency matters more than chasing unusual experiences.

Educational content only. This does not diagnose a condition or replace assessment and advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Related in this classroom

The stress response and chronic stress (8 min read)
Focus, attention and distraction (8 min read)

Sources for this classroom

Educational content only. Not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing your health regimen.