Although the term “mindfulness” is an abstract term, the concept as developed by VA is defined as noticing and paying attention to what is going on in the present moment without passing judgment on such events. A mindful person is a perceptive and sensitive one. Mindfulness has been shown to be effective in reducing stress, improving emotional balance, increasing self-awareness, coping with anxiety and depression, and dealing with chronic pain. 

Mindfulness Coach is a mobile application created by VA’s National Center for PTSD to help veterans and service members learn how to practice mindfulness. The app provides a gradual, self-guided training program designed to help the user understand and adopt simple mindfulness practices. It also contains a library of information about mindfulness, 12 audio-guided mindfulness exercises available for free download, and a mastery assessment to set goals, receive reminders, track progress, and report results.

To view a video about the Mindfulness Coach, click here.