Objectives <p>Previous research has consistently demonstrated an inverse association between mindfulness levels and psychological distress among adolescents. However, the temporal dynamics and reciprocal relationship between these constructs remain poorly explored. The present study addressed this gap by employing cross-lagged network analysis to investigate longitudinal associations and potential causal pathways linking dispositional mindfulness (DM) with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in adolescent populations.</p> Method <p>A sample of 1585 adolescents (<i>M</i> = 13.31, <i>SD</i> = 1.41; 56.6% female) completed the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 at three time points with an interval of 6&#xa0;months in between. Two cross-lagged panel network analyses were constructed to examine temporal associations among five facets of mindfulness and elements of depression, anxiety and stress.</p> Results <p>The study revealed that DM and psychological distress exhibited a reciprocal relationship and formed a vicious cycle of symptoms over time. The <i>Non-Judging</i> facet exerted the most significant effects on the other symptoms, whereas the <i>Observing</i> facet was more likely to be influenced by other symptoms. Notably, the <i>Non-Judging</i> facet emerged as a critical bridge symptom, connecting the dispositional mindfulness and psychological distress communities.</p> Conclusions <p>These results underscore the importance of fostering non-judgmental awareness as a protective factor for adolescent mental health, while highlighting the need for caution with <i>Observing</i> mindfulness practices among vulnerable youth with elevated anxiety and stress sensitivity.</p> Preregistration <p>This study is not preregistered.</p>