Meditation for Depression | Emotional Support & Recommended Types

Meditation can support emotional regulation and reduce rumination, which may help some people with mild low mood. It is not a substitute for professional treatment of depression. If you have depression, major depressive disorder, or thoughts of self-harm, see a doctor or mental health professional. Use meditation only as a complement to therapy and medication when they are prescribed. See the rest of this page for recommended types and safety, and always prioritise your provider's advice.

Mindfulness and loving-kindness are often studied in relation to mood. Loving-kindness can soften self-criticism; guided practice can feel safer when concentration is poor. Always use meditation as a complement to, not replacement for, professional care. See our loving-kindness, mindfulness, and guided type pages and the rest of this guide. Start short (5–10 minutes) and only increase if it feels supportive.

For many people, yes—but for some, sitting with difficult thoughts can feel overwhelming. Start with short, guided or loving-kindness practices and stop if you feel worse. Seek professional support when needed. Do not meditate against your provider's advice or if you have thoughts of self-harm—seek help immediately. See the rest of this page for safety and when not to meditate.

Meditation can reduce rumination, increase self-compassion (e.g. via loving-kindness), and improve emotional awareness. It is not a treatment for depression—use it only as a complement to professional care. Benefits vary by person; for some, observing thoughts can increase distress. See our loving-kindness and guided type pages and the rest of this guide. Always follow your doctor's or therapist's guidance.

No. Meditation is not a treatment for depression and does not replace antidepressants or therapy. It can support mood alongside treatment when prescribed. Do not stop medication without your doctor's guidance. For how to use meditation as a complement and when to seek help, see the rest of this page and our disclaimer.

Stop and talk to a professional. For some, sitting with thoughts increases distress or rumination. Short guided or loving-kindness may feel safer; still prioritise professional care. Meditation is not for everyone in every moment—honour your experience. See the rest of this page for safety and when not to meditate, and our guided and loving-kindness type pages for alternatives.

Start with 5–10 minutes. Increase only if it feels supportive. Do not push through if it increases hopelessness or distress. Some people find shorter (e.g. 5-minute) guided or loving-kindness sessions more manageable. For safety and a beginner plan, see the rest of this page. Always follow your provider's advice.

For some people, yes. Guided practice feels safer and more structured when mood is low and concentration is poor. Loving-kindness is often done in guided form and can soften self-criticism. If mindfulness alone feels overwhelming, try guided or loving-kindness. See our guided and loving-kindness type pages and the rest of this guide.

If you have thoughts of self-harm or severe low mood, seek help immediately. Use meditation only when your provider agrees and it feels supportive. Do not use meditation as a substitute for treatment. If meditation consistently makes you feel worse, stop and talk to a professional. See the rest of this page for safety and our disclaimer.

For some people, observing thoughts can increase rumination or distress. If that happens, try loving-kindness or guided practice instead, or pause and seek professional support. Meditation is not for everyone in every moment. See our loving-kindness and guided type pages and the rest of this guide. Always prioritise professional care and your own safety.

Consult a professional first. If they agree that meditation is appropriate, try 5-minute guided or loving-kindness practice. Consider booking a class for structure and support. Prioritise safety and professional care—do not use meditation as a substitute for treatment. See the rest of this page for a beginner plan and our guided and loving-kindness type pages for options.