ABSTRACT
Chronic pain is a common health concern and is associated with a myriad of negative sequelae spanning multiple domains of functioning. Mindfulness (i.e., the practice of nonjudgmental, purposeful awareness of the present moment) is increasingly becoming a targeted and evidence-based intervention that can positively impact the domains of physical and mental health. This chapter reviews the extant literature regarding mindfulness-based and mindfulness-related interventions, including mindfulness-based stress reduction, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, as potential treatments for chronic pain. Additionally, this chapter discusses applications of mindfulness interventions in clinical settings, self-guided applications of mindfulness (e.g., audio-based self-help interventions, smartphone applications), and cultural implications of mindfulness-based interventions.
