Effect of Mindful Self-Compassion Training on Anxiety, Depression and Emotion Regulation

Abstract

Objective : The present study examined the effectiveness of the mindful self-compassion (MSC) program on anxiety, depression, self-compassion and emotion regulation. Methods : A total of 29 subjects (mean age 27.5±6.5 years, 15 males and 14 females) participated in a standardized 8-week MSC program. The control group consisted of age- and sex-matched twenty participants (mean age 26.0±2.9 years, 11 males and 9 females). All subjects completed self-report measurements at two weeks before and after the MSC program. Results : MSC training improved self-compassion as demonstrated by the significant group x time interaction effects on the total Self-Compassion Scale scores (F[1, 47]=8.324, p<0.01). Regarding the subscale scores, a significant improvement in self-kindness, isolation and mindfulness components of self-compassion was observed after MSC training. A significant group x time interaction was observed on the self-kindness subscale (F[1, 47]=4.664, p<0.05), with a significant main effect of time (F[1, 47]=23.723, p<0.001). The isolation subscale showed a significant group x time interaction (F[1, 47]=8.698, p<0.001). For the mindfulness subscale, there was a significant group x time interaction (F[1, 47]=6.611, p<0.05) and main effect of time (F[1, 47]=6.611, p<0.05). MSC training also improved the acceptance emotion regulation strategy, as demonstrated by the significant group x time interaction in the acceptance subscale scores of the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (F[1, 47]=6.845, p<0.05). Conclusion : MSC training showed efficacy in fostering self-compassion and improving emotion regulation. Thus, this program might be applicable to improve mental health. (Anxiety and Mood 2022;18(1):10-16)