Meditation's Hidden Side Effects: New Research Unveils Complexities

Meditation is widely recognized for its benefits in reducing stress and enhancing mental well-being. However, new research published in Clinical Psychological Science by psychologist Nicholas Van Dam and colleagues from the University of Melbourne reveals that meditation can also lead to negative side effects for some individuals.

The study indicates that nearly 60 percent of U.S. meditators reported at least one side effect, with 30 percent experiencing effects that were distressing or challenging. About 9 percent reported side effects that caused functional impairment.

The researchers conducted a nationwide study involving nearly 900 adults, ensuring a representative sample of the meditator population. They utilized a 30-item checklist to assess side effects, moving beyond previous research's reliance on open-ended questions which often led to underreporting.

This checklist allowed participants to rate the intensity of their experiences, whether positive or negative, and whether these experiences interfered with their daily lives. The findings showed that those with prior mental health symptoms or psychological distress were more likely to report adverse effects.

Intensive residential retreats, which typically feature prolonged periods of silent meditation, also increased the likelihood of functional impairment. Van Dam emphasized the need for more research to understand the cause-and-effect relationship between meditation and mental health.

Importantly, he urged against viewing meditation as inherently dangerous. Instead, he advocates for better informed consent practices, similar to those in other therapeutic treatments, to prepare individuals for possible discomfort.

Practitioners should openly discuss that feelings of unease can occur and may not indicate harm but rather represent deep psychological exploration. However, if distress significantly impacts daily functioning, it should be taken seriously.

Van Dam concluded that meditation practices are not suitable for everyone, and individuals should not feel at fault if their experiences do not align with typical benefits. This nuanced view of meditation's effects is critical for mental health professionals and individuals seeking mindfulness practices, as it encourages informed decision-making.