Mindfulness Training in Military Settings: Emerging Evidence and Best-Practice Guidance.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Evidence suggests that mindfulness training (MT) may protect and strengthen military service members' attentional control functions, improving their performance and holistic fitness as they face the modern-day battlefield. Yet, implementation challenges must be addressed to realize MT's benefits consistently and at scale.

Recent findings: Despite heterogeneity in MT program content, evaluation metrics, and participants' military career stages across studies, recent findings suggest that MT may bolster performance, cognitive functions, psychological well-being, and social relationships. Additionally, implementation factors such as daily practice, trainers' familiarity with the military, and course content influence the extent of benefits. Attentional control is critical for effective performance, yet vulnerable to compromise in high-demand cohorts, such as military service members. MT not only targets and strengthens military service members' attentional control but also enhances other aspects of their functioning. Despite recognized hurdles, best practice guidance is emerging and continued research and efforts to implement MT in military settings are warranted.