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A Meta-analysis of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Impact on ADHD Symptoms, Depression, and Executive Functioning

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Abstract

Objectives

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are increasingly used in adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The aim of the current study was to conduct a meta-analysis of the available studies on the effects of MBIs on ADHD symptoms, depression, and executive functioning in adults diagnosed with ADHD.

Methods

Screening and selection of peer-reviewed literature using PRISMA-P guidelines on PsycINFO, PubMed, SCOPUS, and ERIC databases from inception to July 2019

Results

A total of 14 studies were included in the meta-analysis, for an aggregated sample of 834 adults with ADHD. Overall, the results showed that MBIs are effective to treat ADHD symptoms in adults, as well as to reduce depression and dysexecutive problems post-intervention.

Conclusions

MBIs are useful to improve ADHD symptoms, negative affect, and cognition in adult ADHD. The results contribute to better understanding and encourage the use of non-pharmacological treatments in ADHD.

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This research was funded by The Quebec Research Funds

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HP designed and executed the study, assisted with the data analyses, and wrote the paper. AM (Moreno) conducted the data analyses and collaborated with the writing of the results section of the study. SP collaborated with the data analyses and editing of the final manuscript. AM (Mendrek) contributed to the systematic review and analysis of bias and editing of the final manuscript.

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Correspondence to Hélène Poissant.

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Poissant, H., Moreno, A., Potvin, S. et al. A Meta-analysis of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Impact on ADHD Symptoms, Depression, and Executive Functioning. Mindfulness 11, 2669–2681 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-020-01458-8

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