Millions of people today seek refuge in meditation as a temporary escape from the constant noise and endless to-do lists. This ancient practice, which originated in the Buddhist tradition, has become a global phenomenon that promises inner peace and mindfulness. Almost a quarter of 18 to 64 year olds in Germany use meditation apps, which underlines the widespread acceptance and popularity of this practice. The mindfulness market is booming and meditation is often touted as a panacea for stress and mental health problems. But behind the shiny facade of this booming industry lies a lesser-known and often overlooked reality: Meditation can also have serious psychological side effects.

The other side of the coin

Recent scientific studies, including a ten-year long-term study by psychologist Willoughby Britton at Brown University, come to alarming results. Around one in ten meditators suffer from side effects that can severely limit their everyday life. Anxiety, traumatic flashbacks, and increased sensitivity are just some of the possible negative effects of meditation. A study by the Berlin Charité confirms these results: 22 percent of meditators experienced undesirable effects.

The calm after the storm

While research over the past two decades has highlighted the positive aspects of meditation, such as reducing stress and depression, the downsides have often been ignored or downplayed. The result: an overwhelmingly positive image of meditation, which makes it more difficult for those affected to make their voices heard about side effects. In Germany, the Institute for Border Areas of Psychology and Psychohygiene in Freiburg is the first point of contact to offer help to victims of meditation side effects. But cases of panic attacks, hospitalizations and even suicide after intensive meditation retreats show that the problem goes further.

Responsibility and enlightenment

The responsibility for these side effects is often placed on the meditators themselves. The common reaction is to blame: Either the person had problems before or they meditated “wrongly”. This attitude not only reveals a deep ignorance of the possible risks, but also a questionable practice of deflecting responsibility on the part of the providers. The need for comprehensive information and responsible support is obvious, but there is a lack of mandatory training for meditation teachers and controls in Germany.

Questions and answers about meditation:

Question 1: Are meditation and mindfulness suitable for everyone?
Answer 1: No, as research shows, meditation and mindfulness can cause serious psychological side effects in some people.

Question 2: How common are negative side effects?
Answer 2: Studies show that about one in ten meditators develop serious side effects.

Question 3: What are the most common side effects?
Answer 3: The most common side effects are anxiety, traumatic flashbacks and increased sensitivity.

Question 4: Are there contact points for those affected in Germany?
Answer 4: Yes, the Institute for Border Areas of Psychology and Psychohygiene in Freiburg is the first point of contact to offer support.

Question 5: What should you pay attention to when selecting an offer?
Answer 5: It is important to pay attention to the qualifications of the provider and to clarify in advance whether possible risks and side effects are explained.

Conclusion

The discussion about meditation and its possible side effects sheds critical light on the need for a differentiated approach. While the positive aspects should not be denied, it is paramount that both providers and practitioners take the potential risks seriously. An open discussion, careful preparation for possible side effects and responsible support from qualified teachers are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

Calling for transparent information and mandatory training for meditation teachers is an important step in meeting the individual needs and mental health of practitioners. A more conscious approach to the practice can help preserve meditation for what it can be: a source of peace and strength, not suffering.

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Source: tagesschau.de

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