Loving-Kindness meditation shows promise for easing depression symptoms
NCT ID NCT07611253
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether a short, daily Loving-Kindness Meditation (LKM) could help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve relationships. 240 women college students were randomly assigned to listen to a 5-minute LKM or a visualization meditation each day for one week. Researchers measured changes in mood, social connection, and emotional well-being using questionnaires.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Loving-Kindness Meditation (a guided mental practice focusing on sending love and well-wishes to oneself and a close friend)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a simple, free daily practice to help lift mood and improve social connections for people with mild depression or anxiety.
- What could go wrong
- This was a very short (one week) study in healthy young women, so results may not apply to others or to longer-term relief. Meditation effects are often small and depend on consistent practice.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Queen's University
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.