Mindfulness Buffers the Effect of Inauthenticity on Depression

Objectives Pressures in daily life limit one's ability to be authentic and research shows that inauthenticity can be detrimental to mental health. Mindfulness is known to have a protective effect on mental health through an accepting and nonjudgmental stance. This study aimed to establish whether mindfulness buffers the relationship between inauthenticity and depression. Method A cross-sectional sample of employed individuals in New Zealand (n=301) completed an online survey assessing their levels of authenticity, mindfulness, and depression. Results Findings indicate that authenticity and mindfulness together explain 29% of variance in depression. In addition, mindfulness can buffer the negative impact of low authenticity on depression. Conclusion Inauthenticity is related to higher levels of depression, but mindfulness is able to buffer this impact. These findings imply that engaging in mindfulness practice may be beneficial for mental health when individuals experience reduced authenticity.