Scientists uncover meditations hidden side effects

Meditation has gained popularity as a method for reducing stress and enhancing productivity, but new research raises questions about its potential negative side effects. According to a study by Nicholas Van Dam and colleagues at the University of Melbourne, when meditation is used in medical or therapeutic settings, it’s crucial to understand both the benefits and the risks involved.

The report highlights that while many practitioners report positive experiences, some individuals experience adverse effects such as panic attacks, intrusive memories, and feelings of depersonalization or dissociation.

Estimates of how common these side effects are vary significantly; some studies suggest only 1% of meditators experience them, while others indicate as many as two-thirds might encounter negative outcomes.

To investigate these inconsistencies, Van Dam's team conducted a nationwide study involving nearly 900 adult meditators in the United States. They aimed to better understand how frequently meditators face side effects and which factors might increase the likelihood of experiencing them.

The research utilized a 30-item checklist to gather more structured data about participants' experiences, moving beyond the open-ended questions often used in previous studies. The findings revealed that nearly 60% of U.S. meditators reported at least one side effect, with about 30% experiencing distressing effects and 9% indicating these effects led to functional impairment.

Notably, individuals with recent mental health symptoms were more likely to report adverse effects, as were those attending intensive meditation retreats involving long periods of silence. Van Dam emphasized the need for more research to clarify the relationship between mental health and meditation over time.

Importantly, he cautioned against viewing meditation as inherently dangerous, suggesting that more informed consent practices should be adopted in the field. Just as patients are informed about potential risks in other therapeutic contexts, meditators should be made aware that discomfort can be part of the process.

Van Dam stated that these practices aren't suitable for everyone, and if meditation isn't beneficial for someone, it may not be a reflection of their approach but rather an indication that it might not be the right fit for them.

This new research challenges the assumption that meditation is universally beneficial for mental health and underscores the need for personalized approaches in mental wellness programs.