Too Much of a Good Thing? Examining the Potential Downsides of Mindfulness

The New York Times’ recent article, “Are We Being Too Mindful?” (published May 7, 2024), dives into the growing conversation about the potential drawbacks of mindfulness practices. Mindfulness, the act of focusing our attention on the present moment without judgment, has become a popular tool for stress reduction, anxiety relief, and improved focus. However, research suggests that an excessive focus on mindfulness may lead to unintended consequences.

The article explores findings from Dr. Amishi Jha, a mindfulness researcher at Brown University. Her studies indicate that certain mindfulness techniques, like breathwork and body scans, can paradoxically increase stress hormone levels in some individuals. Additionally, the pursuit of emotional control through mindfulness might lead to a numbing effect, hindering our ability to fully experience both positive and negative emotions.

The article also highlights the potential for mindfulness to exacerbate mental health issues. For those struggling with past trauma, focusing too intensely on internal experiences can trigger negative memories or worsen anxiety.

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

Mindfulness is a practice, not a panacea: Mindfulness, like any tool, requires careful use. There’s a growing recognition that a “one size fits all” approach doesn’t work for everyone.
Finding the right balance: The key seems to lie in striking a balance between awareness and acceptance. Mindfulness should enhance our experience of the present moment, not lead to over-analysis or emotional suppression.
Listen to your body and mind: It’s crucial to pay attention to how mindfulness practices affect you. If you experience negative side effects, consider alternative techniques or consult a qualified meditation teacher.

The growing field of mindfulness research is helping us understand the complexities of this practice. While mindfulness offers a wealth of benefits, it’s important to be mindful of potential drawbacks and adapt our approach accordingly.

In my experience as a trauma therapist: Patients experience:

Activation: Trauma survivors often carry a heavy burden of emotions and memories. Increased awareness through mindfulness can bring these experiences to the surface, leading to activation – a state of heightened anxiety, flashbacks, or emotional overwhelm.
Dissociation as a Coping Mechanism: When activation becomes overwhelming, dissociation kicks in as a defense mechanism. It’s the brain’s way of protecting itself from unbearable emotions. Dissociation, however, prevents processing and healing.
No processing takes place.