The Effects of Two Novel Gratitude and Mindfulness Interventions on Well-Being

Abstract

Objective:

To examine the efficacy of two dual-component interventions, one based on mindfulness and one based on gratitude, to reduce depression and stress and increase happiness levels.

Design:

Randomized, controlled study with data collected at baseline, 3 weeks, and 5 weeks.

Settings:

Participants completed an online gratitude or mindfulness intervention at home. Self-report questionnaires were completed at home or at work.

Participants:

Sixty-five women aged 18–46 years (mean age±standard deviation, 28.35±6.65 years).

Interventions:

Participants were randomly assigned to a wait-list control condition or to either a gratitude or a mindfulness intervention condition. The interventions were used four times a week for 3 weeks. The gratitude intervention involved a gratitude diary and grateful reflection. The mindfulness intervention involved a mindfulness diary and mindfulness meditation, the Body Scan.

Outcome measures:

The outcome variables were depression, stress, and happiness measured by using the Edinburgh Depression Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Subjective Happiness Scale, respectively.

Results:

All outcome variables improved over time in both interventions group but not in the wait-list control group. Efficacy of the interventions differed between the interventions.

Conclusions:

These short novel interventions seem to provide a useful way to enhance well-being. Further research in the area is warranted.