Mindfulness in U.S. Military Veterans: Prevalence, Correlates, and Functional Significance

Abstract

While there is a growing body of literature on mindfulness and mindfulness-based interventions in veteran population, less is known about who might benefit from these interventions. In this study, we analysed data from a nationally representative sample of 4069 U.S. military veterans to examine levels and prevalence of mindfulness; identify and quantify key correlates of mindfulness; explore interactions of positive and negative correlates of mindfulness; and evaluate associations between mindfulness and functioning measures. Overall, veterans reported average mindfulness scores—measured with an abbreviated 3-item version of the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale—of 5.02 out of 6, with 68.6% reporting a high level of mindfulness (i.e., scores of 5 and above). Results of multiple linear regression and relative importance analyses revealed that lower dysphoric arousal was the strongest correlate of mindfulness, followed by fewer somatic symptoms, higher levels of grit, and lower levels of current major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder symptoms. Additionally, interaction analyses of negative and positive correlates showed that secure attachment and received social support moderated the associations between somatic symptoms and mindfulness. Lastly, mindfulness scores were independently and positively associated with mental, cognitive and psychosocial functioning, adjusting for covariates. This study provides a comprehensive and up-to-date examination of mindfulness in a nationally representative sample of U.S. military veterans and highlights key characteristics and functioning outcomes linked to mindfulness. Further research may develop and evaluate MBIs that specifically target individuals with dysphoric arousal and somatic symptoms or leverage protective psychosocial characteristics such as grit.