• Dexing Zhang, Eric K P Lee, Eva C W Mak, C Y Ho, and WongSamuel Y SSYS0000-0003-0934-6385JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.Thomas Jing Mindfulness Centre for Research and Training, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China..
• JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
• Br. Med. Bull. 2021 Jun 10; 138 (1): 41-57.

IntroductionThis is an overall review on mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs).Sources Of DataWe identified studies in PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, AMED, Web of Science and Google Scholar using keywords including 'mindfulness', 'meditation', and 'review', 'meta-analysis' or their variations.Areas Of AgreementMBIs are effective for improving many biopsychosocial conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, addiction, psychosis, pain, hypertension, weight control, cancer-related symptoms and prosocial behaviours. It is found to be beneficial in the healthcare settings, in schools and workplace but further research is warranted to look into its efficacy on different problems. MBIs are relatively safe, but ethical aspects should be considered. Mechanisms are suggested in both empirical and neurophysiological findings. Cost-effectiveness is found in treating some health conditions.Areas Of ControversyInconclusive or only preliminary evidence on the effects of MBIs on PTSD, ADHD, ASD, eating disorders, loneliness and physical symptoms of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. Furthermore, some beneficial effects are not confirmed in subgroup populations. Cost-effectiveness is yet to confirm for many health conditions and populations.Growing PointsMany mindfulness systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicate low quality of included studies, hence high-quality studies with adequate sample size and longer follow-up period are needed.Areas Timely For Developing ResearchMore research is needed on online mindfulness trainings and interventions to improve biopsychosocial health during the COVID-19 pandemic; Deeper understanding of the mechanisms of MBIs integrating both empirical and neurophysiological findings; Long-term compliance and effects of MBIs; and development of mindfulness plus (mindfulness+) or personalized mindfulness programs to elevate the effectiveness for different purposes.© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

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