A recent study led by scientists at MIT’s McGovern Institute for Brain Research found that just 10-15 minutes of mindfulness practice per day significantly reduced stress and anxiety in autistic adults. The participants used a free smartphone app called Healthy Minds to guide their practice, allowing them to do so at their own pace.
Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment, often through meditation or breathing exercises. Research has shown that it can have positive effects on mental health. This new study adds to that evidence, demonstrating clear benefits for autistic adults who struggle with anxiety and stress.
The study recruited 89 autistic adults, who were split into two groups: one group practiced mindfulness for six weeks, while the other waited for their intervention. After six weeks, participants in the mindfulness group reported significant reductions in anxiety and perceived stress, which persisted even after they stopped practicing. The researchers are eager to further explore the long-term effects of mindfulness practice.
The study’s lead investigator, Professor John Gabrieli, believes that mindfulness can be a valuable tool for autistic adults, who often face challenges due to social interactions. “Every measure of well-being moved in significantly in a positive direction,” he said. The researchers hope to share their findings with more people with autism and make scientifically-proven resources available to support them.
Source: https://news.mit.edu/2025/daily-mindfulness-practice-reduces-anxiety-autistic-adults-0513