Mindfulness and Mental Health: The Mediating Role of Cognitive Emotion Regulation

Abstract

The beneficial effect of mindfulness (M) or non-judgemental
awareness and the acceptance of present-moment experience
on mental health and well-being has been well confirmed by
previous research. However, the mechanisms by which M exerts
this beneficial influence have not been sufficiently explored. The
aim of the present study was to examine the interrelationships
between M, cognitive emotion regulation (CER) strategies and
negative affective states (depression, anxiety, and stress). In
addition, we examined the potential mediating role of CER
strategies in the relationship between M and negative affective
states. The study, which was conducted online, included 365
subjects of a wider age range (between 19 and 68 years). The
Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, the Cognitive Emotion
Regulation Questionnaire, and the Depression, Anxiety and
Stress Scale were applied. The results mainly support the partial
mediation model, according to which higher levels of M, in
addition to directly reducing depression, anxiety and stress
symptoms, also indirectly decrease the symptoms of these
negative affective states, through usage of CER strategies. The
results of the study indicate the possible important role of
interventions focused on developing US and adaptive strategies
of emotion regulation with the aim of improving mental health.