Alleviating Examination Stress Through Sound Meditation-Based Lifestyle Intervention: Impacts on Monoamines and Mental Health in a Randomized Controlled Study

Alleviating Examination Stress Through Sound Meditation-Based Lifestyle Intervention: Impacts on Monoamines and Mental Health in a Randomized Controlled Study

Background: Academic stress among university students is an escalating public health issue, with implications for mental health and neurophysiological balance. Exam-related stress can disrupt neurotransmitter balance, affecting mood, cognition, and stress responses. Non-pharmacological interventions, particularly contemplative practices such as meditation, offer holistic avenues for enhancing both psychological and biochemical well-being.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week Sound-Meditation-Based Lifestyle Intervention on monoamine neurotransmitter levels and psychological health in university students with self-reported exam stress.

Methods: In a randomized controlled trial, 37 students (aged 18–25) were assigned to either intervention group (n = 18) or waitlist control group (n = 19). The intervention consisted of daily Nadamay (sound-based) meditation, weekly spiritual counselling, and lifestyle regulation through evening walks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included serum levels of dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine, along with psychological outcomes, exam stress, sleep quality, depression, anxiety, and stress.

Results: The intervention group showed a significant increase in dopamine (p=0.002) and reductions in epinephrine (p=0.003) and norepinephrine (p<0.001) levels. Psychologically, significant improvements were observed in exam stress, depression, anxiety, stress, and sleep quality (all p<0.001). No significant changes occurred in the control group.

Conclusion: The Sound-Meditation-Based Lifestyle Intervention effectively improved monoaminergic function and psychological well-being in students facing academic stress. These effects likely stem from integrated modulation of neuroendocrine systems through contemplative practice, emotional processing, and physical activity.

Keywords: Sound meditation; Monoamine neurotransmitters; Exam stress; Spiritual counselling; University students.