Effect of a Web-Based Heartfulness Program on the Mental Well-Being, Biomarkers, and Gene Expression Profile of Health Care Students: Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Health care students often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and mental health issues, making it crucial to address these challenges. Variations in stress levels may be associated with changes in dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and gene expression. Meditative practices have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing stress and improving mental well-being. Objective: This study aims to assess the effects of Heartfulness meditation on mental well-being, DHEA-S, IL-6, and gene expression profile. Methods: The 78 enrolled participants were randomly assigned to the Heartfulness meditation (n=42, 54%) and control (n=36, 46%) groups. The participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) at baseline and after week 12. Gene expression with messenger RNA sequencing and DHEA-S and IL-6 levels were also measured at baseline and the completion of the 12 weeks. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, paired t test, and 1-way ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. Results: The Heartfulness group exhibited a significant 17.35% reduction in PSS score (from mean 19.71, SD 5.09 to mean 16.29, SD 4.83; P