Examining the relationships between mindfulness, emotion regulation, depression, and anxiety: a structural equation modeling approach

Introduction: This study examined the pathways linking mindfulness to emotion regulation and psychological symptoms among adults in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A total of 306 adults completed validated measures of mindfulness, emotion regulation (cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression), depression, and anxiety. Structural equation modeling was used to test a hypothesized model in which emotion regulation mediated the relationship between mindfulness and psychological wellbeing. Results: Mindfulness was positively associated with cognitive reappraisal but unrelated to expressive suppression. Cognitive reappraisal predicted lower levels of depression and anxiety, whereas expressive suppression was associated with higher psychological distress. Unexpectedly, mindfulness demonstrated small positive direct associations with depression and anxiety once emotion regulation variables were included, suggesting partial suppression effects. Mediation analyses indicated that emotion regulation partially mediated the mindfulness-symptom relationship, mediation, though total effects were nonsignificant. Discussion: The findings highlight the dual role of mindfulness, which may enhance emotional awareness while simultaneously increasing sensitivity to distress when regulation skills are limited. Culturally, the results emphasize the need to adapt mindfulness-based interventions to align with Saudi values and traditions. Future research should employ longitudinal designs and explore culturally grounded forms of mindfulness practice to better understand these.