Implementing the Mindfulness, Wisdom, and Loving-kindness (MWL) Program to Alleviate Depression: A Case Study of the Buddhamahametta Foundation

Abstract

This research article examines the implementation of the Mindfulness, Wisdom, and Loving-kindness (MWL) Program, based on the Dhamma Gīta, to reduce depression among participants at the Buddhamahametta Foundation. The study has three objectives: first, to examine the symptoms and causes of depression among participants; second, to examine the components of the MWL meditation process through Dhamma Gīta for reducing depression; and third, to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of the MWL meditation process through Dhamma Gīta in alleviating depression. The study employed a mixed-methods research design, combining qualitative inquiry and quasi-experimental evaluation. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 key informants who had direct experience with depression and meditation practice, together with a focus group discussion involving 8 experts, including Buddhist monks, meditation teachers, psychologists, and Dhamma Gīta practitioners. Quantitative data were collected from 20 participants with mild-to-moderate depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) before and after participation in the MWL Program. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis and a dependent t-test.

The findings revealed that participants’ depression was associated with emotional trauma, unmet expectations, interpersonal conflict, occupational stress, health-related concerns, family misunderstanding, self-blame, and social isolation. The MWL process consisted of mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness meditation, listening to the Dhamma Gīta, walking meditation, slow bowing, gratitude reflection, Dhamma listening, and family appreciation practices. These components created an emotionally safe and spiritually supportive environment that helped participants reduce overthinking, cultivate self-compassion, develop gratitude, and reconnect with others. The quantitative results showed a statistically significant improvement in PHQ-9 scores after the intervention (t = 3.37290, p = 0.00319), while qualitative findings indicated increased calmness, emotional balance, forgiveness, gratitude, and a sense of meaning in life. The study contributes to applied Buddhist studies by presenting the MWL Program as a culturally rooted and evidence-informed model for reducing depression and enhancing emotional well-being.