Interoception in psychiatry: A systematic scoping review on concepts, methods and clinical impact.

BACKGROUND

Interoception - the perception and interpretation of internal bodily signals - is increasingly recognized as a transdiagnostic mechanism underlying emotion regulation and psychopathology. Although many psychiatric interventions implicitly or explicitly target interoceptive processes, there is limited clarity regarding how interoception is defined, measured, and applied in mental healthcare, as well as how effective interoception-focused interventions are across psychiatric populations.

METHODS

A systematic scoping review was conducted of peer-reviewed studies published up to September 1, 2025, using Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Studies were included if they evaluated interventions targeting interoception or related constructs in individuals with psychiatric disorders. Studies focusing on emotional awareness, emotion regulation, or alexithymia were excluded. Data were synthesized to map definitions, measurements, intervention types, effectiveness, and reported benefits and barriers.

RESULTS

Forty-seven studies were included (37 quantitative; 13 qualitative/mixed). There was substantial heterogeneity in conceptualization and measurement, with most studies focusing on interoceptive awareness using self-report measures, particularly the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA). Interventions included mindfulness-based approaches, body-oriented therapies, structured protocols, and technology-supported methods. Of 37 (quasi-)experimental studies, 34 reported significant improvements in interoceptive outcomes. Qualitative findings highlighted benefits such as improved body awareness and emotion regulation, alongside barriers including skepticism, difficulty engaging with bodily focus, and feelings of being overwhelmed.

CONCLUSIONS

Interoception-focused interventions show consistent positive effects across psychiatric populations and represent a promising avenue for clinical practice. However, variability in definitions and measurement currently limits translation into standardized care. Future research should prioritize clearer conceptualization, multi-method assessment strategies, and greater attention to individual differences to support more personalized and effective interoception-based treatments.