How can mindfulness mitigate anxiety? : the journey of adults in Malta seeking relief from their inexorable mind

Abstract

This study explored how mindfulness helps in managing anxiety. It followed the journey of adults in Malta who were searching for relief from their inexorable mind. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was adopted as a methodological approach for this study. A sample of eight participants which was purposive and somewhat homogeneous was selected. Data was gathered through audio-recorded semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted on an individual basis. Data analysis generated six superordinate themes: 1. The Qualities of Anxiety; 2. How Anxiety is Experienced; 3. Deciding to Pursue Mindfulness; 4. Becoming More Mindful; 5. Mindfulness as an Attempt to Manage Anxiety; 6. Adopting a Mindful Lifestyle. These themes and their subordinate themes represent the journey and experience of participants as they pursue a mindfulness approach as an aid for their heightened anxiety. Findings indicate how mindfulness eased the struggles and hardships brought about by anxiety. The practice taught participants how to be present in the moment and how to become aware, acknowledge and accept feelings, thoughts and behaviours without trying to change them. These proved to be the most effective aspects of mindfulness which led to significant relief from the symptoms of anxiety. Findings generated significant implications for the counselling profession. A number of recommendations for further research conclude this research study.