Mindfulness-based well-being skills for people reentering the community
Official title: Community-engaged Research to Promote Mental Health and Successful Reentry Outcomes Following Incarceration
Run by University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06975657 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Madison, Wisconsin) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 12, 2026 |
| Main results expected | November 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | November 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 10, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06975657 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Mindfulness-based programs have shown benefits for anxiety and depression in other populations, but rigorous evidence specifically in reentering adults is limited.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
University of Wisconsin
Madison, Wisconsin, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Dan Grupe, PhD — University of Wisconsin, Madison
- Study coordinator: Study Team
- Email: mindful-reentry@chm.wisc.edu
- Phone: (608) 228-1709
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.