Mindfulness and self-compassion can alleviate premenstrual symptoms
A kind attitude toward oneself and practicing mindfulness can improve functioning in individuals who experience severe premenstrual symptoms, according to a study by psychologists from SWPS University and Jagiellonian University.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and its more severe form, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), cause distressing psychological and physical symptoms, including mood swings, fatigue, concentration difficulties, headaches, and muscle pain. These ailments occur during the second phase of the menstrual cycle and interfere with daily functioning, affecting education, work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Up to 30 percent of women affected
It is estimated that PMS affects approximately 20-30% of menstruating people, while PMDD impacts 3-8%. The scale of the problem is significant, yet the psychological factors that protect against the development of these symptoms have not been thoroughly investigated.
The study, published in "Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice”, is part of a broader project analysing potential mechanisms and factors that may protect against the onset of PMS and PMDD. In a new study, Rachela Antosz-Rekucka, PhD, a psychologist at the Institute of Psychology at SWPS University, and Katarzyna Prochwicz, PhD, a professor at the Institute of Psychology of the Jagiellonian University, analysed factors that might protect against the onset of severe premenstrual symptoms. They examined variables such as the sense of coherence, mindfulness skills, and self-compassion, and investigated their relationship with past trauma, perceived stress levels, and symptoms of premenstrual disorders.
The study involved 228 participants aged 18 to 52. They were asked about their past experiences with premenstrual symptoms, and a part of the group subsequently tracked their symptoms over the course of two menstrual cycles.
Self-compassion and mindfulness help alleviate symptoms
The results suggest that higher levels of certain psychological resources can moderate the negative effect of stress and trauma on the severity of menstrual cycle-related symptoms.
Specific psychological attitudes may noticeably reduce the impact of daily stress on the severity of premenstrual symptoms. These include a kind attitude toward oneself and the acceptance of difficult moments, known as self-compassion. This approach helps women to navigate the challenging phases of their cycle more easily, even during times of intense nervous tension, says Rachela Antosz-Rekucka of SWPS University, who conducted the study as part of her doctoral research at the Jagiellonian University.
Practicing mindfulness (directing one’s attention to the present moment without judgment or worry) can also offer relief. In the context of PMS and PMDD, refraining from judging one’s own emotional reactions is particularly helpful, as it prevents the magnification of perceived discomfort. Furthermore, individuals with a strong sense of coherence cope better with rising premenstrual stress.
Past trauma and premenstrual symptoms
For individuals with a history of trauma, the ability to precisely describe their internal states and feelings, combined with the capacity to avoid judging their own emotional reactions, can help mitigate the negative impact of that trauma on premenstrual symptoms.
Psychological resources boost stress resilience
The results of the study could be significant for many people who menstruate. These findings could pave the way for modern therapeutic programs based on approaches such as mindfulness training or self-compassion-focused therapy, potentially reducing the reliance on medication.
The study suggests that more understanding, mindful, and compassionate attitude towards oneself may benefit individuals with severe premenstrual symptoms. PMS and PMDD are chronic conditions, which is why interventions such as mindfulness-based therapy, compassion-focused therapy, or strategies oriented at enhancing the sense of coherence, may help individuals navigate their conditions more effectively, and possibly increase their overall quality of life, Rachela Antosz-Rekucka emphasises.
Journal
Psychology and Psychotherapy Theory Research and Practice
Method of Research
Observational study
Subject of Research
People
Article Title
The buffering role of sense of coherence, mindfulness skills and self-compassion in premenstrual disorders: Findings from a general sample
Mindfulness in DNP education: Cultivating resilience and leadership in advanced practice
PHILADELPHIA (October 23, 2026) — A new study demonstrates that embedding short, asynchronous mindfulness practices into Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curricula effectively reduces stress, combats burnout, and builds essential leadership skills. Published in Nurse Educator, the project evaluated student responses to brief, 1-to-5-minute mindfulness modules delivered through course learning management systems.
Penn Nursing’s Nancy P. Blumenthal, DNP, ACNP-BC, ISHLTF, served as senior author of the study which found:
- Over 90% of students agreed that the embedded curriculum successfully supported their personal self-care.
- Qualitative findings showed that mindfulness enhances cognitive flexibility, emotional intelligence, and proactive leadership during high-stress clinical and professional situations.
- The curriculum achieved a strong Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 69.2, indicating that students overwhelmingly value the training and would recommend it to peers.
"As burgeoning health care leaders, Doctor of Nursing Practice students carry immense academic and professional loads that make initiative-taking self-care an absolute necessity rather than an afterthought," said Blumenthal. "By embedding brief, accessible mindfulness practices directly into their coursework, we can bridge the gap between theory and real-world practice—equipping nurse leaders with the emotional regulation and cognitive flexibility needed to foster healthier, more resilient environments for themselves and their teams."
Aligning with National Standards
By integrating mindfulness into advanced nursing education, the initiative directly supports core competencies outlined in the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) 2021 Essentials—specifically addressing person-centered care and leadership development. Equipping nurse leaders with practical emotional regulation tools helps foster sustainable work environments and promotes long-term workforce well-being.
The study was conducted by an interprofessional team whose members were all affiliated with Penn Nursing at the time of the project. In addition to lead author Miranda V. McPhillips, PhD, RN, now at the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing at Villanova University, and Misol Kwon, PhD, RN, now at the School of Nursing at the University at Buffalo, the co-authors include Alexa J. Watach, PhD, RN; Mara Wai, MEd; Christina Salemo, DNP, RN, AGCNS-BC; Amy M. Sawyer, PhD, RN, FAAN; and Nancy P. Blumenthal, DNP, ACNP-BC, ISHLTF, all of Penn Nursing at the time of the study.
Journal
Nurse Educator
Article Title
Cultivating Resilient Doctor of Nursing Practice Leaders: Student Experiences With an Embedded Mindfulness Curriculum
