Mindfulness + Relaxation for Stress Management in Physics Students
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to assess how mindfulness and relaxation training affect stress and performance in physics students. It compares these techniques to understand their effects on emotions, motivation, and academic results. Participants will complete a 5-day audio-guided program in either mindfulness or relaxation, along with two writing tasks. This trial suits University of Pittsburgh undergraduates who feel stressed about their physics class.
As an unphased study, it offers a unique opportunity for students to explore stress-reduction techniques that could enhance their academic experience.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on mindfulness and relaxation techniques, so it's unlikely that medication changes are required.
What prior data suggests that these training programs are safe for students?
A previous study found that mindfulness practices carry very few risks. Researchers reviewed over 200 studies on mindfulness and found it effective for reducing stress in healthy individuals with minimal safety concerns. Similarly, relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation music, are considered safe and effective for stress relief. Workplaces often use these techniques to help manage stress without causing harm. Both mindfulness and relaxation are generally well-tolerated, making them safe options for stress management.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these treatments because they explore mindfulness and relaxation as methods for managing stress in students, offering unique, non-pharmaceutical approaches. Unlike typical stress-relief options like medication or traditional therapy, these treatments are delivered through a structured, audio-guided program over just five days, which is convenient and easily accessible. The integration of writing activities adds an interactive component that may enhance self-reflection and stress processing. This trial could reveal effective, fast-acting strategies for stress management that are particularly suited for busy students.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for stress management in physics students?
This trial will compare Mindfulness Training with Relaxation Training for stress management in physics students. Research has shown that mindfulness training can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Studies have found that mindfulness activities improve mental health by helping individuals manage emotions better and experience less psychological distress. Similarly, relaxation techniques can lower stress and enhance well-being. Reviews suggest these methods decrease stress levels and improve quality of life. Both mindfulness and relaxation have shown promise in managing stress, which could benefit students facing academic pressures.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Brian Galla, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Timothy Nokes-Malach, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for University of Pittsburgh undergraduates who are at least 18 years old, enrolled in introductory physics courses, and feel psychologically stressed by physics. It's not open to those under 18, not enrolled in such courses, or who don't feel this kind of stress.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants undergo a 5-day audio-guided training program, either mindfulness or relaxation, with additional writing activities on day 1 and day 5
Immediate Post-Intervention Assessment
Assessment of treatment expectancy, performance on physics problem-solving tasks, and judgments of confidence, difficulty, and self-efficacy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in cognitive problem-solving strategies, rational-experiential ability, and other psychological measures
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Mindfulness
- Relaxation
Mindfulness is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Substance Abuse Treatment
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression
- Stress Management
- Anxiety Disorders
- Chronic Pain
- Depression
- Anxiety Disorders
- Substance Abuse Treatment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pittsburgh
Lead Sponsor
U.S. National Science Foundation
Collaborator