There is evidence that practicing MBSR can be beneficial for trauma-exposed women. Past research has suggested that MBSR may both alleviate psychological distress and strengthen the immune system of low-income women with history of interpersonal trauma.

Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Stress and Immune Function of Trauma-Exposed Low-Income Women

- Psychological distress resulting from trauma can increase the risk of inflammation.
- Inflammation can worsen the stress of trauma-exposed patients in return as inflammatory cytokines can bring about symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Chapman University

Exposure to trauma is related to higher levels of inflammatory cytokines. Some inflammatory cytokines include interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-ɑ (TNF- ɑ), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Excessive or dysregulated chronic secretion of these cytokines can increase the risk for inflammatory diseases.

The Impact of Interpersonal Trauma on Inflammatory Cytokines

Gallegos, A. M., Lytle, M. C., Moynihan, J. A., & Talbot, N. L. (2015). Mindfulness-based stress reduction to enhance psychological functioning and improve inflammatory biomarkers in trauma-exposed women: A pilot study. Psychological trauma: theory, research, practice and policy, 7(6), 525–532. https://doi.org/10.1037/tra0000053

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