Mindfulness-based interventions for pain, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in patients receiving palliative care: a meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Palliative care addresses not only physical symptoms but also emotional and spiritual suffering in patients with advanced disease. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) may help alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life. Previous reviews have explored MBIs’ efficacy, but evidence remains inconclusive. Objective: To systematically evaluate the effects of MBIs on pain, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in patients receiving palliative care. Methods: Six databases and grey literature were searched from databases inception to 22 May 2025. Outcomes included pain, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Meta-analyses with forest plots estimated pooled standardised mean differences (SMDs). Egger’s test assessed publication bias, and leave-one-out sensitivity analysis evaluated result stability. Results: Thirteen trials were included. MBIs significantly reduced anxiety (SMD = −0.68, 95% CI = −1.15 to −0.21, I2 = 65.37%, p < 0.001) and depression (SMD = −0.43, 95% CI = −0.68 to −0.18, I2 = 0.00%, p < 0.001). Effects on pain and quality of life were less clear, with insufficient evidence to confirm significant benefit. Conclusions: MBIs appear to alleviate anxiety and depression in palliative care patients, highlighting their potential as supportive interventions. Further research is warranted to clarify effects on pain and quality of life.