Document Type
Dissertation
Degree
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Major
Nursing
Date of Defense
7-10-2020
Graduate Advisor
Nancy Magnuson
Committee
Elizabeth Mantych
Ann Chartrand
Abstract
Abstract
Problem: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) affects thousands of Americans every year. Mindfulness, a practice of bringing oneself into the present moment, has been shown to impact anxiety symptoms positively.
Objective: This prospective observational correlational study utilized mindfulness-based exercises to help decrease anxiety severity according to the generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) in an outpatient psychiatric practice.
Methods: Participants practiced mindfulness exercises for two months. The GAD-7 was completed three times to monitor symptom severity. Two participant satisfaction surveys were completed to determine whether participants felt the exercises were beneficial for decreasing their anxiety.
Results: A repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze within factor variables of the GAD-7 and showed a p-value 0.009. A second repeated measures ANOVA was performed for each combination of the GAD-7 scores and revealed statistical significance between the first and second GAD-7 with a p-value of 0.020.
Implications for Practice: Results from the satisfaction survey showed all participants felt the exercises were beneficial in managing their anxiety and would continue to practice in the future. Providers can feel confident in recommending these quick, cost effective exercises for patients with a GAD diagnosis.
Recommended Citation
Calhoun, Kelly, "Utilizing Mindfulness-Based Exercises to Reduce Anxiety Severity Scores According to the GAD-7" (2020). Dissertations. 946.
https://irl.umsl.edu/dissertation/946