Mindfulness: what the research says

UK guidelines recommend group mindfulness courses for milder low mood. Some evidence for stress and anxiety; it doesn't suit everyone.

What a session is

Mindfulness means paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, body and surroundings in the present moment, without judging them. Sessions often include meditation and breathing practice.

What the research says

• Low mood: UK guidelines recommend structured group courses for milder depression and to help stop it returning. One-to-one sessions are less studied. Good evidence it helps · NICE, 2022 · NHS, 2026 · NCCIH, 2022
• Stress: May ease stress for some people, and UK guidance says employers should offer it. Many studies are weak, and it does not suit everyone. Some evidence it may help · NHS, 2026 · NCCIH, 2022 · NICE, 2022
• Worry and anxiety: Some studies found it works about as well as other approaches for anxiety. Results are mixed, and benefits may not last. Some evidence it may help · NCCIH, 2024 · WHO, 2026 · NCCIH, 2022
• Back, neck and muscle tension: An 8-week course may ease long-lasting low back pain for a while. Benefits are small, and guidelines disagree. Some evidence it may help · American College of Physicians, 2017 · NCCIH, 2020 · WHO, 2023
• Sleep: Some studies found better sleep quality, but sleep guidelines say there is not enough evidence for insomnia. Studies are small. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2024 · NCCIH, 2022
• Menopause: One early study found hot flushes felt less bothersome, though no less intense. A US menopause society does not recommend it for them. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2017 · NHS, 2026 · The Menopause Society, 2023
• Grief: Not studied for grief itself. It has some evidence for stress and low mood, but strong feelings can feel stronger at first. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2022

More on each need: Lift your mood · Handle stress better · Feel calmer · A relaxed body · Sleep better · Menopause wellbeing · Grief and loss

Is it safe?

Mindfulness does not suit everyone: in studies, about 8 in 100 people felt worse, most often more anxious or low. If you have a mental health condition, talk to your doctor first. Use it alongside medical care, not instead of it. NHS, 2026 · NCCIH, 2022

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

Sessions on Sissoo

Sissoo earns a commission when you book. This never changes the ratings on this page.

Find a mindfulness session →

Checked 17 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.