Mandala coloring to reduce stress and anxiety in mothers with babies in NICU

The Effect of Mandala Coloring Activity on Stress and Anxiety in Mothers with Babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: a Randomized Controlled Study

Not applicable Interventional Istanbul Medeniyet University · NCT06499259

This study is testing if coloring mandalas can help mothers of babies in the NICU feel less stressed and anxious.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment72 (estimated)
Ages19 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorIstanbul Medeniyet University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Istanbul, Kadıköy)
Trial IDNCT06499259 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the impact of mandala coloring activities on stress and anxiety levels in mothers whose babies are hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). It aims to address the psychological distress experienced by these mothers due to their babies' health status and prolonged hospital stays. The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial, including 72 participants, to assess the effectiveness of this creative intervention in alleviating emotional distress. Data will be collected through various tools before and after the intervention to measure changes in stress and anxiety levels.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are mothers of babies who have been in the NICU for at least three days and are staying in a designated mother's hotel.

Not a fit: Patients with psychiatric illnesses or those taking medication for mental health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce stress and anxiety in mothers, improving their overall well-being during a challenging time.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of mandala coloring is novel, similar interventions focusing on creative activities have shown promise in reducing stress and anxiety in various populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Mothers whose baby has been in the neonatal intensive care unit for at least 3 days and staying in the mother's hotel,
* Having agreed to participate in the research/approved the informed consent form
* No visual or hearing impairment
* Being over 18 years old,
* Being at least literate
* The absence of any problem that would prevent him/her from painting mandala (no problem in his arm or hand that would prevent his movement)
* Must not have a diagnosis of mental illness/anxiety disorder

Exclusion Criteria:

* Mothers with communication and perception problems will not be included in the study.
* Mothers with comprehension and speech problems will not be included in the study.
* Mothers with psychiatric illness and taking medication will not be included in the study.

Where this trial is running

Istanbul, Kadıköy

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions AnxietyParentsPsychological StressStressNeonatal Intensive Care UnitMandala coloringMothers
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.