Mindfulness-based well-being skills for people reentering the community

Community-engaged Research to Promote Mental Health and Successful Reentry Outcomes Following Incarceration

NA · University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06975657

This trial tests a six-week mindfulness program to see if it reduces anxiety and depression and is acceptable for adults returning to the community after incarceration.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison (other)
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT06975657 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized program compares a six-week mindfulness skills course to a waitlist control among adults recently released from jail or prison. Participants complete an intake interview and baseline questionnaires, are randomly assigned to the immediate mindfulness group or a waitlist, and (if assigned) attend weekly classes for six weeks. All participants complete post-course questionnaires and a follow-up interview and survey two months after the program. Outcomes include changes in anxiety and depression symptoms plus measures of acceptability and feasibility.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults (18+) who were formerly incarcerated, can provide informed consent, and can attend weekly sessions in Madison, Wisconsin.

Not a fit: People with active psychosis, current suicidal intent or plan, or daily use of certain substances (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines, opioids) are excluded and unlikely to benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the program could reduce anxiety and depression symptoms and improve coping during community reentry.

How similar studies have performed: Mindfulness-based programs have shown benefits for anxiety and depression in other populations, but rigorous evidence specifically in reentering adults is limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 or older
* Formerly incarcerated in a local jail, state or federal prison
* Can read, speak and understand English
* Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Suicidal ideation with some intent to act or with a specific plan and intent
* Active psychosis
* Daily or nearly daily use (over the past 3 months) of the following substances: cocaine, amphetamines, inhalants, sedatives or sleeping pills, hallucinogens, or opioids

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Formerly Incarcerated Adults

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.