The CALM Project: Teaching Mindfulness Meditation in Primary Care Using Computer-Based Application

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) have been studied extensively and the evidence is now credible that even brief techniques, delivered electronically using web-based applications (apps), easily accessed by smart phone, computer, or tablet, are consistently effective at anxiety reduction as well demonstrating efficacy in other commonly occurring comorbidities such as depression, stress, and panic symptoms. The purpose of this DNP project was to examine feasibility and the effect of the app, Calm.com, on anxious adult patients in primary care, using the Recovery Alliance Theory as its theoretical foundation. This pilot study was longitudinal, using a pre-test/post-test measurement of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Seven-Item Scale (GAD-7), electronic collection of time the app was used, and qualitative measures in a group of 15 adult primary care patient volunteers. The MBI consisted of 28-sessions, varying in length from 9-18 minutes consisting of education on mindfulness and guided meditation practice. Changes in the pre/post GAD-7 scores were significant (p= 0.01), with a trend toward improvement in symptoms with more use of the app, but the changes were statistically insignificant (p= 0.20). The qualitative data confirmed participants’ belief that the app was beneficial in helping them learn to relax, using short educational sessions. This project adds to the evidence that a web-based app is an evidence-based option for management of anxiety in adult primary care patients