Trauma informed mindfulness to mitigate depression in adults with adverse childhood experiences: a nurse-driven initiative
Date
2022
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a significant health concern in the United States and have a direct impact on both physical and mental health and that lasts well into adulthood. Evidence shows that there is a strong correlation between exposure to ACEs, specifically a cumulative number of ACEs, and mental health challenges such as depression in adults. An evidence-based approach such as screening for ACEs in adults with depression can help guide an approach to care that is sensitive to this early trauma, avoiding interventions that may be re-traumatizing, and may improve the consequences of this trauma, even into adulthood. In addition, implementing mindfulness interventions, as an adjunct to counseling and other behavioral interventions, has been shown to be useful to manage symptoms of depression. ☐ This DNP evidence-based practice project was guided by Banduras Social Cognitive Theory, that emphasizes hope and self-efficacy. The project purpose was to explore whether the use of a mindfulness app called Insight Timer® and a survey/questionnaire on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are helpful in the adjunctive treatment of depression in adults. Data collection included a convenience sample of 20 adults with depression in a private-practice, mental health counseling center, who consented to participate in the project. Of those 20 adults, 18 completed ACEs screening and 13 completed the follow-up survey on the use of the mindfulness app. Data analysis indicates that 100% of the participants reported ACEs, and that those ACEs impacted their health. The participants shared that the app helped to reduce their levels of anxiety, help them stay grounded, helped manage their emotions and helped with sleep. ☐ Keywords: Adverse Childhood Experiences, Depression, Mindfulness
Description
Keywords
Adverse childhood experiences, Depression, Mindfulness