During the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals are having to stay at home in quarantine to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus. Depending on the number of occupants and the dwelling space available, this can lead to household crowding, which can have an effect on mental health. In addition, the closing of leisure facilities, including restaurants, cafes and, with the need to self-isolate and socially distance, has led to loneliness. The focus on "loneliness" has recently been on a rise, and being described as an epidemic, especially when it has been shown to be associated with various diseases as well as increased risk of mortality. Studies conducted on participants in isolation has shown increased mental health issues including anxiety, stress and depression. Mindfulness intervention has been shown to alleviate mental health issues including loneliness. However, to date, there is limited studies examining the effectiveness of a remote mindfulness intervention. This proposal aims to deliver a remote mindfulness program that can be accessible by participants easily and even during the isolation period. This intervention will investigate the effectiveness and safety in elevating mental health issues faced by the general population.
Loneliness, mindfulness and quality of life will be assessed as the primary outcome of the
study. A mindfulness video will be used as the intervention for participants, and is compared
with a group with similar video content without mindfulness component. The effect of changes
in primary outcome will be assessed between groups after 2-4weeks.
Behavioral: Mindfulness intervention
Gentle body stretching with the incorporation of breathing technique
Behavioral: Non-Mindfulness intervention
Gentle body stretching without the incorporation of breathing technique
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adult participants
Exclusion Criteria:
- None
Monash University Malaysia
Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Siew Li Teoh, PhD, Principal Investigator
Monash University Malaysia