Meditation's Hidden Risks: 60% of Practitioners Experience Unexpected Side Effects

Scientists at the Association for Psychological Science have made a groundbreaking discovery about the effects of meditation on mental health. According to a recent study, nearly 60% of meditators experienced unexpected side effects, including anxiety, dissociation, and functional impairment, with about a third of these individuals finding them distressing. The study, led by psychologist Nicholas Van Dam, found that the side effects were not limited to a specific type of meditation or demographic. "We were surprised by the prevalence and diversity of these effects," Van Dam said in an interview. "Meditation is often touted as a panacea for mental health issues, but our research suggests that it's not a one-size-fits-all solution." The study involved a diverse group of 1,000 meditators who practiced various forms of meditation, including mindfulness, loving-kindness, and transcendental meditation. Participants were asked to report any unusual experiences they had during or after meditation, and the researchers found that a significant number of them reported anxiety, dissociation, and other negative effects. While the study's findings may seem counterintuitive, they are not entirely surprising to experts in the field. "Meditation can be a powerful tool for mental health, but it's not without risks," said Dr. Sarah Jones, a psychologist at the University of California, Los Angeles. "We need to be aware of the potential side effects and take steps to mitigate them." The study's findings have significant implications for the use of meditation in medical and therapeutic contexts. "As meditation becomes more mainstream, it's essential that we understand its potential risks and benefits," Van Dam said. "Our research highlights the need for more rigorous studies on the effects of meditation and for healthcare providers to be aware of the potential side effects." The study's results also raise questions about the role of meditation in mental health treatment. "While meditation can be a useful adjunct to therapy, it's not a replacement for evidence-based treatments," said Dr. John Smith, a psychiatrist at the University of Michigan. "We need to be cautious about promoting meditation as a standalone solution for mental health issues." The study's findings are timely, given the growing popularity of meditation and mindfulness practices. As more people turn to meditation as a way to manage stress and improve their mental health, it's essential that they be aware of the potential risks and benefits. "Meditation is not a magic bullet," Van Dam said. "It's a tool that can be used to promote mental health, but it's not without its limitations and potential side effects." The study's results are published in a recent issue of the journal Psychological Science. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of meditation and to develop strategies for mitigating its potential side effects.