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Xie Q, Riordan KM, Baldwin SA, Simonsson O, Hirshberg MJ, Dahl CJ, Nahum-Shani I, Davidson RJ, Goldberg SB. Is informal practice associated with outcomes in loving-kindness and compassion training? Evidence from pre-post and daily diary assessments. Behav Res Ther 2024; 177:104537. [PMID: 38608409 PMCID: PMC11096024 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2024.104537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
We investigated whether informal meditation practice (i.e., self-reported application of meditative techniques outside a period of formal meditation) was associated with outcomes in smartphone-based loving-kindness and compassion training. Meditation-naïve participants (n = 351) with clinically elevated symptoms completed measures of psychological distress, loneliness, empathy, and prosociality at baseline and following a two-week intervention. Informal practice, psychological distress, and loneliness were also assessed daily. Steeper increases in informal practice had small associations with pre-post improvements in distress (r = -.18, p = .008) and loneliness (r = -.19, p = .009) but not empathy or prosociality. Using a currently recommended approach for establishing cross-lagged effects in longitudinal data (latent curve model with structured residuals), higher current-day informal practice was associated with decreased next-day distress with a very small effect size (βs = -.06 to -.04, p = .018) but not decreased next-day loneliness. No cross-lagged associations emerged from distress or loneliness to informal practice. Findings suggest that further investigation into a potential causal role of informal practice is warranted. Future studies experimentally manipulating informal practice are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Xie
- Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kevin M Riordan
- Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Scott A Baldwin
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Otto Simonsson
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Cortland J Dahl
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Healthy Minds Innovations Inc, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Inbal Nahum-Shani
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Richard J Davidson
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Simon B Goldberg
- Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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2
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Douma ER, Wirtz S, Fernandez MS, Schäfer H, Widdershoven JW, Habibović M, Gil CP, Bosch JA, Schmitz B, Kop WJ. Patient-reported preferences in eHealth-based cardiac rehabilitation: A qualitative investigation of behavior change techniques, barriers and facilitators. Internet Interv 2024; 35:100728. [PMID: 38405384 PMCID: PMC10883827 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2024.100728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) reduces recurrent cardiac events and mortality in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Innovative eHealth methods can facilitate CR uptake and effectiveness by addressing barriers associated with clinic-based rehabilitation. Tailoring eHealth-based CR to patient preferences is needed to further enhance CR. Purpose To identify preferred behavior change techniques (BCTs) as well as barriers and facilitators for the different health behaviors targeted in eHealth-based CR among patients who have been referred to CR. Methods Thirty-nine patients were interviewed in nine focus groups in The Netherlands, Germany, and Spain. A thematic analysis, using a combined deductive and inductive approach to coding, was conducted to identify BCTs and barriers and facilitators to behavior change. Behaviors under investigation included physical activity, medication adherence, eating a cardiac healthy-diet, stress reduction and smoking cessation. Results The perceived helpfulness of BCTs depended on the specific behavior targeted. Common barriers were negative emotional state and physical limitations. A desire to feel physically or mentally well and having experienced a cardiac life event were the most common facilitators across health behaviors. Specific BCTs, barriers and facilitators were found for each of the health behavior. Conclusions Behavior change techniques that patients preferred for each health behavior targeted in eHealth-based CR were identified. A negative emotional state, experiencing a life event, and improving physical functioning are important barriers and facilitators in multiple behaviors targeted in eHealth-based CR programs. Additional tailoring of interventions to patient preferences for BCTs and patient-specific barriers and facilitators per health behavior could lead to further improvement of eHealth-based CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R. Douma
- Tilburg University, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Svenja Wirtz
- DRV Clinic Königsfeld, Center for Medical Rehabilitation, Ennepetal, Germany
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Manuela Sestayo Fernandez
- Hospital Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Servizo Galego De Saude, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Hendrik Schäfer
- DRV Clinic Königsfeld, Center for Medical Rehabilitation, Ennepetal, Germany
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Jos W.M.G. Widdershoven
- Tilburg University, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Tilburg, the Netherlands
- Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Mirela Habibović
- Tilburg University, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Carlos Peña Gil
- Hospital Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Servizo Galego De Saude, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Jos A. Bosch
- University of Amsterdam, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Boris Schmitz
- DRV Clinic Königsfeld, Center for Medical Rehabilitation, Ennepetal, Germany
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Willem J. Kop
- Tilburg University, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS), Tilburg, the Netherlands
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Owens RA, Houchins J, Nolan S, Smalling MM, Attia E, Fitzpatrick JJ. Feasibility of a 3-Minute Mindful Breathing Intervention for Enhancing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurses' Resilience During COVID: Findings From a 4-Week Pilot Study. Holist Nurs Pract 2024; 38:E1-E9. [PMID: 37966993 DOI: 10.1097/hnp.0000000000000628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
COVID created a perfect storm of conditions leading to excessive and prolonged stress on already vulnerable nurses. This study examines the feasibility of enhancing psychiatric mental health nurses' (PMHNs') resilience by practicing a 3-minute mindfulness-based intervention. In this pilot study, we explored if PMHNs could be recruited and retained for intervention implementation, intervention acceptability, and measurement of any notable changes over the prescribed period. Study feasibility is reflected in high participant retention and increased postintervention resilience scores. Given the positive outcomes, a larger-scale study is warranted. Additional areas of opportunity include strategies for increasing participant uptake, and, due to limited acceptability feedback, the introduction of a usefulness scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Owens
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York (Drs Owens and Attia); Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York (Dr Houchins); Providence, Los Angeles, California (Dr Nolan); New York State Office of Mental health, Albany (Ms Smalling); and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio (Dr Fitzpatrick)
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4
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Nomeikaite A, Gelezelyte O, Berger T, Andersson G, Kazlauskas E. Exploring reasons for usage discontinuation in an internet-delivered stress recovery intervention: A qualitative study. Internet Interv 2023; 34:100686. [PMID: 37942059 PMCID: PMC10628352 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) interventions can be as effective as traditional face-to-face therapy for various mental health conditions. However, a significant challenge these online interventions face is the high rate of people who start but then stop using the program. This early discontinuation can be seen as incomplete treatment and can reduce the potential benefits for users. By exploring why people stop using ICBT programs, we can better understand how to address this problem. This study aimed to examine the experiences of healthcare workers who had stopped using a therapist-guided internet-delivered stress recovery program to gain deeper insights into usage attrition. We conducted semi-structured interviews with twelve participants who were female healthcare workers ranging in age from 24 to 68 years (M = 44.67, SD = 11.80). Telephone interviews were conducted and the data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Qualitative data analysis revealed that most participants had multiple reasons for discontinuing the program. They identified both barriers and facilitators to using the program, which could be categorized as either personal or program related. Personal aspects included life circumstances, personal characteristics, and psychological responses to the program. Program-related aspects encompassed technical factors, program content, and the level of support provided. The findings of this study can enhance our understanding of why people stop using guided internet-delivered programs. We discuss the practical and research implications, with the ultimate aim of improving the design and efficacy of internet interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Auguste Nomeikaite
- Center for Psychotraumatology, Institute of Psychology, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Odeta Gelezelyte
- Center for Psychotraumatology, Institute of Psychology, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Evaldas Kazlauskas
- Center for Psychotraumatology, Institute of Psychology, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Palmer R, Roos C, Vafaie N, Kober H. The effect of ten versus twenty minutes of mindfulness meditation on state mindfulness and affect. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20646. [PMID: 38001316 PMCID: PMC10673854 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46578-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to elucidate the effects of "dose" of a single-session of mindfulness meditation on state mindfulness and affect as well as moderators of effects. 372 adults recruited remotely via Amazon's MTurk platform were randomly assigned to either a: 10-min mindfulness meditation, 20-min mindfulness meditation, 10-min control, or 20-min control. Control conditions were recordings of a National Geographic article. Primary outcomes were changes in state mindfulness, anxiety, and negative and positive affect. Moderator variables included neuroticism, trait mindfulness, and prior meditation experience. Collapsing across doses, participants in mindfulness conditions reported greater increases in state mindfulness than in control conditions. There was a greater increase in state mindfulness in the 10-min mindfulness condition versus 10-min control condition. There were no differences between 10- and 20-min mindfulness conditions. Exploratory moderation analyses indicated that meditation (10 or 20) versus control (10 or 20) predicted increased state mindfulness among participants with lower trait mindfulness. Additionally, 20-min versus 10-min meditation predicted greater decreases in state anxiety among individuals with high trait mindfulness. Dose-response relationships were minimal, suggesting that 10 and 20 min of meditation may improve state mindfulness comparably. Findings support the benefits of brief mindfulness meditation and suggest that trait mindfulness moderates certain outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Corey Roos
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nilofar Vafaie
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hedy Kober
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
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6
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Osborne EL, Ainsworth B, Hooper N, Atkinson MJ. Experiences of Using Digital Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Rapid Scoping Review and Thematic Synthesis. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44220. [PMID: 37768709 PMCID: PMC10570895 DOI: 10.2196/44220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are a promising approach to deliver accessible and scalable mindfulness training and have been shown to improve a range of health outcomes. However, the success of digital MBIs is reliant on adequate engagement, which remains a crucial challenge. Understanding people's experiences of using digital MBIs and identifying the core factors that facilitate or act as barriers to engagement is essential to inform intervention development and maximize engagement and outcomes. OBJECTIVE This study aims to systematically map the literature on people's experiences of using digital MBIs that target psychosocial variables (eg, anxiety, depression, distress, and well-being) and identify key barriers to and facilitators of engagement. METHODS We conducted a scoping review to synthesize empirical qualitative research on people's experiences of using digital MBIs. We adopted a streamlined approach to ensure that the evidence could be incorporated into the early stages of intervention development. The search strategy identified articles with at least one keyword related to mindfulness, digital, user experience, and psychosocial variables in their title or abstract. Inclusion criteria specified that articles must have a qualitative component, report on participants' experiences of using a digital MBI designed to improve psychosocial variables, and have a sample age range that at least partially overlapped with 16 to 35 years. Qualitative data on user experience were charted and analyzed using inductive thematic synthesis to generate understandings that go beyond the content of the original studies. We used the Quality of Reporting Tool to critically appraise the included sources of evidence. RESULTS The search identified 530 studies, 22 (4.2%) of which met the inclusion criteria. Overall, the samples were approximately 78% female and 79% White; participants were aged between 16 and 69 years; and the most used measures in intervention studies were mindfulness, psychological flexibility, and variables related to mental health (including depression, anxiety, stress, and well-being). All studies were judged to be adequately reported. We identified 3 themes characterizing barriers to and facilitators of engagement: responses to own practice (ie, negative reactions to one's own practice are common and can deplete motivation), making mindfulness a habit (ie, creating a consistent training routine is essential yet challenging), and leaning on others (ie, those engaging depend on someone else for support). CONCLUSIONS The themes identified in this review provide crucial insights as to why people frequently stop engaging with digital MBIs. Researchers and developers should consider using person-based coparticipatory methods to improve acceptability of and engagement with digital MBIs, increase their effectiveness, and support their translation to real-world use. Such strategies must be grounded in relevant literature and meet the priorities and needs of the individuals who will use the interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ben Ainsworth
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nic Hooper
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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7
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Cearns M, Clark SR. The Effects of Dose, Practice Habits, and Objects of Focus on Digital Meditation Effectiveness and Adherence: Longitudinal Study of 280,000 Digital Meditation Sessions Across 103 Countries. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e43358. [PMID: 37725801 PMCID: PMC10548318 DOI: 10.2196/43358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of digital meditation is well established. However, the extent to which the benefits remain after 12 weeks in real-world settings remains unknown. Additionally, findings related to dosage and practice habits have been mixed, and the studies were conducted on small and homogeneous samples and used a limited range of analytical procedures and meditation techniques. Findings related to the predictors of adherence are also lacking and may help inform future meditators and meditation programs on how to best structure healthy sustainable practices. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to measure outcome change across a large and globally diverse population of meditators and meditations in their naturalistic practice environments, assess the dose-response relationships between practice habits and outcome change, and identify predictors of adherence. METHODS We used ecological momentary assessment to assess participants' well-being over a 14-month period. We engineered outcomes related to the variability of change over time (equanimity) and recovery following a drop in mood (resilience) and established the convergent and divergent validity of these outcomes using a validated scale. Using linear mixed-effects and generalized additive mixed-effects models, we modeled outcome changes and patterns of dose-response across outcomes. We then used logistic regression to study the practice habits of participants in their first 30 sessions to derive odds ratios of long-term adherence. RESULTS Significant improvements were observed in all outcomes (P<.001). Generalized additive mixed models revealed rapid improvements over the first 50-100 sessions, with further improvements observed until the end of the study period. Outcome change corresponded to 1 extra day of improved mood for every 5 days meditated and half-a-day-faster mood recovery compared with baseline. Overall, consistency of practice was associated with the largest outcome change (4-7 d/wk). No significant differences were observed across session lengths in linear models (mood: P=.19; equanimity: P=.10; resilience: P=.29); however, generalized additive models revealed significant differences over time (P<.001). Longer sessions (21-30 min) were associated with the largest magnitude of change in mood from the 20th session onward and fewer sessions to recovery (increased resilience); midlength sessions (11-20 min) were associated with the largest decreases in recovery; and mood stability was similar across session lengths (equanimity). Completing a greater variety of practice types was associated with significantly greater improvements across all outcomes. Adhering to a long-term practice was best predicted by practice consistency (4-7 d/wk), a morning routine, and maintaining an equal balance between interoceptive and exteroceptive meditations. CONCLUSIONS Long-term real-world digital meditation practice is effective and associated with improvements in mood, equanimity, and resilience. Practice consistency and variety rather than length best predict improvement. Long-term sustainable practices are best predicted by consistency, a morning routine, and a practice balanced across objects of focus that are internal and external to the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micah Cearns
- Insight Timer Research, Insight Timer, Sydney, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Scott R Clark
- Discipline of Psychiatry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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8
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Fincham GW, Mavor K, Dritschel B. Effects of Mindfulness Meditation Duration and Type on Well-being: an Online Dose-Ranging Randomized Controlled Trial. Mindfulness (N Y) 2023; 14:1171-1182. [PMID: 37304656 PMCID: PMC10090715 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-023-02119-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Objectives This multi-arm randomized controlled online trial explored the effects of two key mindfulness characteristics (dose and type) over 2 weeks on mental well-being, along with psychological distress and dispositional mindfulness, in a healthy community sample. Method Participants were randomly assigned to one of four mindfulness interventions (~ 10 min or ~ 30 min of sitting or movement meditation) to practice daily for 2 weeks; 161 participants fully completed the study and were included in the final sample. We also explored self-reported adherence through how often participants practiced, along with dropout rate via how many participants fully completed the study. Results Well-being and mindfulness scores increased-and distress scores decreased-within all four conditions. However, most importantly, there were no significant differences between the conditions as a function of meditation dose or type. There were also no differences between the conditions on how regularly the meditations were practiced irrespective of type or dose. Additionally, there was no difference on dropout rate regarding meditation dose. However, meditation type had an effect, with a significantly higher dropout rate for participants allocated to a movement meditation irrespective of the dose. Conclusions Brief mindfulness meditation may offer some benefit to well-being regardless of the meditation type and dose but, fundamentally, no differences in effects were detected between short/long sitting meditations and short/long movement meditations. Moreover, the results indicate that movement meditations may possibly be harder to adhere to, potentially informing the tailoring of mindfulness-based self-help programs. Limitations and future directions are also discussed. Preregistration This study was retrospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619000422123). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12671-023-02119-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy W. Fincham
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, England
| | - Ken Mavor
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
| | - Barbara Dritschel
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
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9
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Murry LT, Wilhelm L, Corrigan J, Witry MJ. Journey Mapping Healthcare Worker Experience With Heart Rhythm Meditation. GLOBAL ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE AND HEALTH 2023; 12:2164957X231152796. [PMID: 36816468 PMCID: PMC9933984 DOI: 10.1177/2164957x231152796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levels of stress and burnout continue to rise amongst healthcare workers. In addition to systemic and institution-level changes to healthcare practice environments, well-being interventions, resources, and support to assist healthcare providers are necessary. Meditation practices like Heart Rhythm Meditation (HRM) may provide benefits to healthcare workers, but healthcare worker experiences with HRM are not well understood. OBJECTIVE To explore healthcare worker experiences with HRM using a journey mapping approach. METHODS An exploratory cross-sectional online survey was administered between May and July of 2020 to a purposeful sample of 25 healthcare workers currently practicing HRM. Surveys consisted of 5 open-ended and 36 multiple-choice items mapped to five journey mapping domains: Discover, Search, Assess, Decide, Assist. Descriptive statistics for survey items were generated in addition to a visual representation of a Persona and associated journey map for HRM. Content analysis was performed on open-ended responses using a general inductive approach to code responses and identify representative quotes. RESULTS Twenty surveys were completed for a response rate of 80%. The majority of respondents identified as women (n = 14). From the journey mapping output, the overall emotional experience score was an 8.2/10, suggesting respondents had positive experiences with HRM. Open-ended comments suggest that HRM provides important benefits to the personal and professional lives of healthcare workers. A small number of participants reported challenges like feeling difficult emotions during HRM practice. CONCLUSION Mapping the healthcare worker journey with HRM identified generally positive experiences with personal and professional benefits. While experiences were largely positive, HRM elicited difficult emotions from some individuals, suggesting that appropriate resources and support are required when considering HRM and other meditation forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan T Murry
- Department of Pharmacy Practice,
The
University of Iowa College of Pharmacy,
Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Lisa Wilhelm
- Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical
Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | - Matthew J Witry
- Department of Pharmacy Practice,
The
University of Iowa College of Pharmacy,
Iowa City, IA, USA
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10
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Remskar M, Western MJ, Maynard OM, Ainsworth B. Exercising body but not mind: A qualitative exploration of attitudes to combining physical activity and mindfulness practice for mental health promotion. Front Psychol 2022; 13:984232. [PMID: 36571001 PMCID: PMC9780497 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.984232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physical activity and mindfulness meditation can be effective for maintaining good mental wellbeing, with early-stage research suggesting even greater effectiveness in tandem. Literature is lacking on the perceptions and acceptability of these practices, particularly in a preventative context. The study aimed to explore attitudes toward mental health and its maintenance through physical activity and mindfulness meditation in the university student population. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a sample of 16 students from 10 United Kingdom universities (M age = 23 years, SD = 3.22) recruited through social media and stratified to have varied wellbeing symptoms, physical activity levels, and experience with mindfulness meditation. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to elicit meaning from the data. Results Four main themes were constructed. Participants held a "Dualist view of health," in which mental and physical aspects were seen as distinct but connected, and prioritized physical health maintenance. The "Low-point paradox," where engagement is most difficult during the time of greatest need, was identified as a crucial psychological barrier across health behaviors. "Unfamiliarity with mindfulness practice" was common, as were misconceptions inhibiting practice. Finally, participants were intrigued by combining physical activity and mindfulness, supposing that "Whole is greater than the sum of its parts," with mutual reinforcement of the two techniques cited as biggest motivating factor. Conclusion Effective preventative mental health strategies for adults, including university students, should accommodate for common psychological barriers and facilitators to health maintenance behaviors, including misconceptions surrounding mindfulness, to increase acceptability. Combining physical activity and mindfulness meditation is one promising preventative approach that warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masha Remskar
- Department of Psychology, Bath Center for Mindfulness and Community, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom,Department for Health, Center for Motivation and Health Behavior Change, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Masha Remskar,
| | - Max J. Western
- Department for Health, Center for Motivation and Health Behavior Change, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Olivia M. Maynard
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Ainsworth
- Department of Psychology, Bath Center for Mindfulness and Community, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom,Digital Interventions Group, Department of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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11
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Papini NM, Mason TB, Herrmann SD, Lopez NV. Self-compassion and body image in pregnancy and postpartum: A randomized pilot trial of a brief self-compassion meditation intervention. Body Image 2022; 43:264-274. [PMID: 36206649 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The current study evaluated the efficacy of a three-week self-compassion (SC) meditation intervention in improving body image and SC during pregnancy and postpartum. Participants (n = 71; age = 31.92 ± 3.98 years; white = 61, 85.9%; intervention = 35, 49.3%; pregnant = 33, 46.5%; postpartum = 38, 53.5%) were recruited from a health coaching program and 35 were randomly assigned into a three-week SC meditation intervention while 36 were randomly assigned to a waitlist control condition. Linear regressions using full-information maximum likelihood estimation examined the effect of intervention group on body image and SC outcomes controlling for baseline level of outcome, pregnancy or postpartum status, previous meditation experience, and physical activity. Results indicated women in the intervention group reported significantly reduced body shame and body dissatisfaction and improved body appreciation and self-compassion compared to women in the control group. Implementation of a brief SC meditation intervention during pregnancy and postpartum has potential to improve mental health outcomes related to body image. Future work should replicate this study with a larger, more diverse sample of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M Papini
- Northern Arizona University, Department of Health Sciences, Flagstaff, AZ, USA.
| | - Tyler B Mason
- University of Southern California, Department of Preventive Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephen D Herrmann
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Nanette V Lopez
- Northern Arizona University, Department of Health Sciences, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
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12
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Petrovic J, Bastien L, Mettler J, Heath NL. Mindfulness Receptivity, Dispositional Mindfulness, and Coping Self-Efficacy in University Students with and Without a History of Self-Injury. JOURNAL OF COLLEGE STUDENT PSYCHOTHERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/87568225.2022.2127075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Petrovic
- Faculty of Education, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Laurianne Bastien
- Faculty of Education, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jessica Mettler
- Faculty of Education, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nancy L. Heath
- Faculty of Education, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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13
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Kim S, Crawford J, Hunter S. Role of an Online Skill-Based Mindfulness Program for Healthcare Worker's Resiliency During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Method Study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:907528. [PMID: 35910930 PMCID: PMC9330380 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.907528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the mental health care needs of health care workers. The primary aim of this study was to explore the effects of an online mindfulness program on resiliency in health care workers during the pandemic using a mixed-methods approach. An online 4-week mindfulness program was delivered to healthcare workers (N = 130) in Ontario, Canada. Resiliency was assessed at 3-time points (i.e., pre, post, and 1-month follow-up), and the mindfulness program's efficacy on resiliency was analyzed using linear regression. Semi-structured interviews (N = 10) were conducted to substantiate their experiences. Healthcare workers' resiliency significantly increased after the mindfulness program compared to the baseline, maintaining the effect after 1 month in both unadjusted and adjusted regression models. These findings were further bolstered by the positive experiences shared by participants highlighting the program's efficacy on empathy and resiliency. Evidence suggests that mindfulness is associated with promoting resiliency in healthcare workers and may be an important strategy to promote resiliency in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyeon Kim
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Soyeon Kim
| | - Jennifer Crawford
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Hunter
- Research and Innovation, Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology, Barrie, ON, Canada
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14
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Trygg Lycke S, Airosa F, Lundh L. Emergency Department Nurses' Experiences of a Mindfulness Training Intervention: A Phenomenological Exploration. J Holist Nurs 2022; 41:170-184. [PMID: 35574608 DOI: 10.1177/08980101221100091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore emergency care nurses' experiences of an intervention to increase compassion and empathy and reduce stress through individual mindfulness training delivered via workshops and a smartphone application. We also explored how the nurses felt about the practical and technical aspects of the intervention. Design: Qualitative interview study. Method: Individual interviews were conducted with eight of the 56 participants in the intervention study and used phenomenological analysis to illuminate how they made sense of their lived experiences of mindfulness training. Findings: Three themes illuminated the nurses' experiences: becoming aware, changing through mindfulness, and gaining the tools for mindfulness through workshops and the mobile application. The first two themes expressed personal experiences, whereas the third expressed experiences of the practical and technical aspects of the intervention. Most nurses found the mobile application easy to use and effective. Conclusions: Emergency care nurses can feel that the awareness and changes that come with mindfulness training benefit them, their colleagues, and the patients for whom they care. The findings also provide insights into the challenges of practicing mindfulness in a busy emergency care setting and into the practical aspects of using a smartphone application to train mindfulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Trygg Lycke
- Specialist nurse and health care development leader, Academic Primary Health Care Centre, Region Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fanny Airosa
- Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, 27106Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Quality developer, 83223Ersta Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Lundh
- Specialist nurse and head of the Lifestyle Unit, Academic Primary Health Care Centre, Region Stockholm, Sweden.,Researcher, Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, 27106Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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Yadav M, Neate S, Hassed C, Chambers R, Connaughton S, Nag N. Mining the Gems of a Web-Based Mindfulness Intervention: Qualitative Analysis of Factors Aiding Completion and Implementation (Preprint). JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e37406. [PMID: 36197709 PMCID: PMC9582916 DOI: 10.2196/37406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Digital health interventions provide a cost effective and accessible means for positive behavior change. However, high participant attrition is common and facilitators for implementation of behaviors are not well understood. Objective The goal of the research was to identify elements of a digital mindfulness course that aided in course completion and implementation of teachings. Methods Inductive thematic analysis was used to assess participant comments regarding positive aspects of the online mindfulness course Mindfulness for Well-being and Peak Performance. Participants were aged 18 years and older who had self-selected to register and voluntarily completed at least 90% the course. The course comprised educator-guided lessons and discussion forums for participant reflection and feedback. Participant comments from the final discussion forum were analyzed to identify common themes pertaining to elements of the course that aided in course completion and implementation of teachings. Results Of 3355 course completers, 283 participants provided comments related to the research question. Key themes were (1) benefits from the virtual community, (2) appeal of content, (3) enablers to participation and implementation, and (4) benefits noted in oneself. Of subthemes identified, some, such as community support, variety of easily implementable content, and free content access, align with that reported previously in the literature, while other subthemes, including growing together, repeating the course, evidence-based teaching, and immediate benefits on physical and mental well-being, were novel findings. Conclusions Themes identified as key elements for aiding participant completion of a mindfulness digital health intervention and the implementation of teachings may inform the effective design of future digital health interventions to drive positive health behaviors. Future research should focus on understanding motivations for participation, identification of effective methods for participant retention, and behavior change techniques to motivate long-term adherence to healthy behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muskan Yadav
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sandra Neate
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Craig Hassed
- Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Richard Chambers
- Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sherelle Connaughton
- Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nupur Nag
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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16
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Jones SMW, Sherman KJ, Bermet Z, Palazzo LG, Lewis CC. Theory of Planned Behavior and Mindfulness Intentions in Chronic Low Back Pain. Mindfulness (N Y) 2022; 13:3145-3152. [PMID: 36408120 PMCID: PMC9648996 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-022-02022-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Theory of planned of behavior (TPB) constructs have been linked to health behavior intentions. Intentions to try mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), a first-line therapy for chronic low back pain (cLBP), have been less studied. This study aimed to identify which TPB constructs could inform strategies to improve adoption of MBSR. Methods People with cLBP (n = 457) read a description of MBSR then completed survey items assessing TPB constructs: attitudes, norms, self-efficacy, perceived control, and intentions to try MBSR training. Results Structural equation modeling showed self-efficacy/control (coefficient: 0.564), norms (0.245), and attitudes (0.131) were all positively associated with intentions to try mindfulness trainings. Conclusions Results suggest self-efficacy/control may be the most strongly related TPB construct with intentions to try MBSR. Dissemination of MBSR for cLBP could focus on adapting the intervention to increase accessibility and improving available resources to overcome logistical barriers (online formats, drop-in classes). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12671-022-02022-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salene M. W. Jones
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, University of Washington, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
| | - Karen J. Sherman
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, University of Washington, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
| | - Zoe Bermet
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Lorella G. Palazzo
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, University of Washington, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
| | - Cara C. Lewis
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, University of Washington, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
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17
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Fatkin T, Moore SK, Okst K, Creedon TB, Samawi F, Fredericksen AK, Roll D, Oxnard A, Lê Cook B, Schuman-Olivier Z. Feasibility and acceptability of mindful recovery opioid use care continuum (M-ROCC): A concurrent mixed methods study. J Subst Abuse Treat 2021; 130:108415. [PMID: 34118705 PMCID: PMC8478704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2021.108415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
As opioid overdose deaths increase, buprenorphine/naloxone (B/N) treatment is expanding, yet almost half of patients are not retained in B/N treatment. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) designed to promote non-judgmental awareness of present moment experience may be complementary to B/N treatment and offer the potential to enhance retention by reducing substance use and addressing comorbid symptoms. In this pilot study, we examined the feasibility and acceptability of the Mindful Recovery OUD Care Continuum (M-ROCC), a trauma-informed, motivationally sensitive, 24-week MBI. Participants (N = 18) were adults with Opioid Use Disorder prescribed B/N. The study team conducted assessments of satisfaction, mindfulness levels, and home practice, as well as qualitative interviews at 4 and 24-weeks. M-ROCC was feasible in a sample with high rates of childhood trauma and comorbid psychiatric diagnoses with 89% of participants retained at 4-weeks and 72% at 24-weeks. Positive qualitative interview responses and a high rate of participants willing to refer a friend (100%) demonstrates program acceptability. Participant mindfulness increased from baseline to 24-weeks (β = 0.24, p = 0.001, d = 0.51), and increases were correlated with informal mindfulness practice frequency (r = 0.7, p < 0.01). Although limited by small sample size, this pilot study highlights the feasibility and acceptability of integrating MBIs into standard primary care Office-Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT) among a population with substantial trauma history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Fatkin
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
| | - Sarah K Moore
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, United States of America.
| | - Kayley Okst
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
| | - Timothy B Creedon
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America; Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
| | - Farah Samawi
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
| | | | - David Roll
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America; Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
| | - Alexandra Oxnard
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America; Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
| | - Benjamin Lê Cook
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America; Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
| | - Zev Schuman-Olivier
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America; Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA, United States of America; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, United States of America.
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18
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Xu HG, Tuckett A, Kynoch K, Eley R. A mobile mindfulness intervention for emergency department staff to improve stress and wellbeing: A qualitative study. Int Emerg Nurs 2021; 58:101039. [PMID: 34333332 DOI: 10.1016/j.ienj.2021.101039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational stress and burnout in emergency departments (ED) are prominent issues requiring effective solutions. In other health settings use of a smartphone mindfulness app have been shown to be a cost-effective strategy for stress management. AIM To understand ED staff's experiences of practicing mindfulness using a smartphone app. METHOD A qualitative study was undertaken with 24 ED staff at two Australian EDs who had used a mindfulness app for 4 weeks. Semi-structured, one-to-one interviews were conducted between late 2019 and early 2020. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Descriptive description was utilised in content analysis. RESULTS Four main themes were identified: individuality in use of the app, perceived benefits and impacts on life, perceived barriers and enablers to use. Participants reported that mindfulness practice had numerous benefits including better stress and anxiety management, as well as improved general wellbeing. The main barriers to mindfulness practice were poor time management for mindfulness and lack of motivation. Reported enablers included a strong desire for promoting wellbeing and the ability to embed practice into existing routine. CONCLUSION Practicing mindfulness with a smartphone app is a useful strategy to promote ED staff wellness and manage stress. Healthcare organisations should consider the implementation of a mindfulness app for staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Grace Xu
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Emergency Department, Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Anthony Tuckett
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Curtin School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Kathryn Kynoch
- Evidence in Practice Unit and Queensland Centre for Evidence Based Nursing and Midwifery, A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Mater Misericordiae Ltd, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Robert Eley
- Southside Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Emergency Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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19
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Osin EN, Turilina II. Mindfulness meditation experiences of novice practitioners in an online intervention: Trajectories, predictors, and challenges. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2021; 14:101-121. [PMID: 34268871 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The benefits of mindfulness interventions are well-known, but their challenges and individual differences in reactions to these challenges are much less clear. METHODS The study used a mixed-methods design to investigate the individual trajectories of daily experiences during meditation in a sample of novice volunteers participating in a 3-week, distance-based, guided meditation intervention (N = 175). RESULTS Multilevel modelling revealed individual differences in the change trajectories of the experiences of effort, meaning, and boredom during meditation, indicating that meditation gradually became less effortful, less boring, more interesting, and more important over the 3 weeks. The individual differences in the levels of these experiences and their change trends were associated with baseline differences in well-being, reflective processes, self-management, and self-control skills, as well as autonomous motivation to engage in the course. CONCLUSIONS Individuals who are initially more autonomous and mindful find it easier to engage with online mindfulness interventions and draw more benefits from the process, whereas those with lower self-regulation skills or higher proneness to rumination are more likely to experience mindfulness as effortful and boring, and, eventually, to give it up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny N Osin
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, Moscow, Russia.,LINP2-AAPS Laboratory, Paris Nanterre University, Nanterre, France
| | - Irina I Turilina
- International Laboratory of Positive Psychology of Personality and Motivation, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
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20
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Wu TY, Nien JT, Kuan G, Wu CH, Chang YC, Chen HC, Chang YK. The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Shooting Performance and Cognitive Functions in Archers. Front Psychol 2021; 12:661961. [PMID: 34248757 PMCID: PMC8268485 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.661961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) called mindfulness-based peak performance (MBPP) on athletic performance and cognitive functions in archers, as well as the role of psychological status and the dose-response relationship of MBPP in archery performance. Twenty-three archers completed a simulated archery competition and the Stroop task prior to and after MBPP training, which consisted of eight sessions over four weeks, while the mindfulness and rumination levels of the archers were assessed at three time points, namely, before, at the mid-point of, and after the MBPP program. The results revealed that the MBPP program significantly improved the shooting performance (p = 0.002, d = 0.27), multiple cognitive functions (ps < 0.001, d = 0.51~0.71), and mindfulness levels of the archers on the post-test, compared to the pre-test (p = 0.032, ηp2 = 0.15 for general; p = 0.004, ηp2 = 0.22 for athletic). Additionally, negative ruminations level was decreased from the pre-test to the middle-test and post-test (ps < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.43). These findings provide preliminary evidence to support the view that MBPP could serve as a promising form of training for fine motor sport performance, cognitive functions, and specific psychological status, such that it warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Yi Wu
- Department of Combat Sport, National Taiwan University of Sport, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ti Nien
- Graduate Institute of Athletics and Coaching Science, National Taiwan Sport University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Garry Kuan
- Exercise and Sports Science Programme, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Chih-Han Wu
- Graduate Institute of Athletics and Coaching Science, National Taiwan Sport University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chieh Chang
- Physical Education Center, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Chih Chen
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute for Research Excellence in Learning Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Kai Chang
- Institute for Research Excellence in Learning Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Physical Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
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21
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Is clinician-supported use of a mindfulness smartphone app a feasible treatment for depression? A mixed-methods feasibility study. Internet Interv 2021; 25:100413. [PMID: 34401372 PMCID: PMC8350580 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2021.100413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is the leading cause of disability globally and has serious consequences for the individual, their family and for society. Effective, accessible and affordable treatments are urgently needed. In-person group-based mindfulness-based interventions are an effective treatment for depression, but are not widely available and can be costly. Clinician supported use of mindfulness self-help resources such as mindfulness smartphone applications could widen access at a reduced cost, but there are key feasibility questions that need answering. This is a mixed-methods feasibility study of a blended intervention involving the mindfulness smartphone app Headspace alongside six clinician support sessions with mental health treatment seeking adults experiencing moderate to moderately severe symptoms of depression. In line with recommendations for feasibility studies, we examine whether: (1) it is possible to recruit participants to this novel intervention, (2) participants engage with the intervention, (3) participants and clinicians find the intervention acceptable, and (4) pre-post outcomes on measures of depression (primary outcome), anxiety, wellbeing, mindfulness, self-compassion, rumination and worry indicate effectiveness. Findings show that recruitment is feasible with 54 participants enrolled in the intervention within a 6-month window. In terms of engagement, 44.4% completed at least 80% of recommended Headspace sessions and 72.2% of participants attended at least three clinician support sessions. Clinician-supported Headspace was deemed acceptable by participants and clinicians. Pre-post effect sizes were statistically significant and in the small-medium or medium-large range on all outcomes, with an effect size of d = 0.69 (95% CI: 0.34-1.04) for the primary outcome of depression symptom severity. The number of Headspace sessions engaged with was associated with greater reduction in depression symptom severity. Findings suggest that a blended intervention combining Headspace with clinician support has potential as a first-line treatment for moderate/moderately severe depression, but findings are too preliminary to recommend the intervention outside of a research trial. Important caveats are noted including the need for future research to examine predictors of engagement with Headspace sessions so that engagement can be enhanced, to measure the longer term effects of such interventions and to better understand the potential for lasting negative effects of the intervention so that these can be minimised.
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22
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Accoto A, Chiarella SG, Raffone A, Montano A, de Marco A, Mainiero F, Rubbino R, Valzania A, Conversi D. Beneficial Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Training on the Well-Being of a Female Sample during the First Total Lockdown Due to COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5512. [PMID: 34063864 PMCID: PMC8196575 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The global pandemic caused by COVID-19 and the subsequent lockdown have been widely recognized as traumatic events that pose threats to psychological well-being. Recent studies reported that during such traumatic events, women tend to be at greater risk than men for developing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Several studies reported that a mindfulness-based stress reduction protocol (MBSR) provides useful skills for dealing with traumatic events. In our study, a sample of Italian females received an 8-week MBSR course plus 6 weeks of video support for meditation practice during the first total lockdown in Italy. We assessed the participants with questionnaires before and after this period to investigate their mindfulness skills, psychological well-being, post-traumatic growth, and psychological flexibility. After the intervention, the meditators group reported improvement in measures associated with self-acceptance, purpose in life, and relation to others compared to the control group. Furthermore, our results showed that participants with greater mindfulness scores showed high levels of psychological flexibility, which in turn was positively associated with higher levels of psychological well-being. We concluded that the MBSR could support psychological well-being, at least in female subjects, even during an unpredictable adverse event, such as the COVID-19 lockdown, by reinforcing key psychological aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Accoto
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (S.G.C.); (A.R.); (A.d.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Salvatore Gaetano Chiarella
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (S.G.C.); (A.R.); (A.d.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Antonino Raffone
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (S.G.C.); (A.R.); (A.d.M.); (F.M.)
- School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy and Comparative Religions, Nalanda University, Rajgir 803116, India
| | | | - Adriano de Marco
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (S.G.C.); (A.R.); (A.d.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesco Mainiero
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (S.G.C.); (A.R.); (A.d.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Roberta Rubbino
- A.T. Beck Institute, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.M.); (R.R.); (A.V.)
| | | | - David Conversi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (S.G.C.); (A.R.); (A.d.M.); (F.M.)
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23
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Hsieh CC, Lin ZZ, Ho CC, Yu CJ, Chen HJ, Chen YW, Hsiao FH. The Short- and Long-term Causal Relationships Between Self-compassion, Trait Mindfulness, Caregiver Stress, and Depressive Symptoms in Family Caregivers of Patients with Lung Cancer. Mindfulness (N Y) 2021; 12:1812-1821. [PMID: 33968270 PMCID: PMC8096886 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-021-01642-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Using a prospective longitudinal design, this paper examines a serial mediation model of the associations between self-compassion, trait mindfulness, caregiver stress, and depressive symptoms among the family caregivers of patients with lung cancer. Methods A four-wave design was used, with initial assessment (T1) and three follow-ups, at the 2nd month (T2), the 5th month (T3), and the 8th month (T4). A total of 123 family caregivers completed the baseline measurements, including caregiver stress, self-compassion, trait mindfulness, and depressive symptoms. Data were analyzed by serial mediation models to determine the causal ordering of these variables. Results Nearly one-quarter of the family caregivers suffered from clinically significant depressive symptoms and the severity of their depression remained unchanged throughout the 8-month follow-up period. Both cross-sectional and longitudinal path analyses revealed that the relationship between self-compassion and depressive symptoms was mediated sequentially by trait mindfulness and caregiver stress. The subscale analysis indicated that the association of higher compassionate action with fewer depressive symptoms was through chain-mediating effects of higher mindful awareness and lower caregiver stress. Conclusions Family caregivers who have higher levels of self-compassion tend to have more mindfulness; greater mindfulness leads to lower levels of perceived caregiving stress which, in turn, links to fewer symptoms of depression. Both self-compassion and mindfulness could be regarded as protective factors for caregivers to reduce caregiving stress and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chen Hsieh
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Zhong-Zhe Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Chi Ho
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chong-Jen Yu
- National Taiwan University Hospital Hsinchu Branch, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Jung Chen
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Chen
- Department of Social Work, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fei-Hsiu Hsiao
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Nursing, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Klatt M, Westrick A, Bawa R, Gabram O, Blake A, Emerson B. Sustained resiliency building and burnout reduction for healthcare professionals via organizational sponsored mindfulness programming. Explore (NY) 2021; 18:179-186. [PMID: 33931362 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2021.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To measure healthcare professional (HCP) result sustainability following implementation of an organizationally sponsored Mindfulness Based Intervention (MBI), Mindfulness in Motion (MIM), in areas of burnout, perceived stress, resilience, and work engagement. METHODS A follow-up survey was sent via email to healthcare professionals (n = 220) who previously participated in the 8-week MIM intervention. Survey assessed burnout, perceived stress, resilience, work engagement, and included open-ended questions pertaining to barriers, facilitators, and sustained impact of practicing mindfulness after program end. RESULTS Analysis included 66 healthcare professionals with sustainability time frames ranging from 3 to 28 months from initial program finish. Average time since intervention end was 12.2 months. Based on 12.2 months sustained results post MIM, there were significant differences from pre-MIM to sustainability follow-up in burnout (*p = 0.0047), perceived stress (*p = 0.00001), and resilience (*p = 0.0004). Work engagement benefits were non-significant from pre-test to follow-up (p = 0.4008). There were no significant differences in results when comparing the length of time since participant was enrolled in the initial study. Additionally, analysis of the qualitative data revealed multiple subthemes relating to facilitators of sustained mindfulness, barriers to practicing mindfulness, and lasting impacts of the MIM intervention. CONCLUSIONS For Healthcare Professionals, the organizationally sponsored mindfulness intervention outcomes were sustained beyond the 8-weeks of the initial MIM intervention for all but one outcome variable. Post 8-week intervention end, participants were given the option of receiving weekly "Mindful Moment" emails and attending monthly mindfulness booster sessions. Organizational support may be a pivotal factor in sustaining positive results achieved via mindfulness programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryanna Klatt
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.
| | - Alexis Westrick
- Gabbe Health and Wellness Initiative, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Rani Bawa
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Olivia Gabram
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Amanda Blake
- Gabbe Health and Wellness Initiative, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Brent Emerson
- Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Renfrew ME, Morton DP, Northcote M, Morton JK, Hinze JS, Przybylko G. Participant Perceptions of Facilitators and Barriers to Adherence in a Digital Mental Health Intervention for a Nonclinical Cohort: Content Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e25358. [PMID: 33851925 PMCID: PMC8082377 DOI: 10.2196/25358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Digital mental health promotion interventions (MHPIs) present a scalable opportunity to attenuate the risk of mental health distress among nonclinical cohorts. However, adherence is frequently suboptimal, and little is known about participants’ perspectives concerning facilitators and barriers to adherence in community-based settings. Objective This study aimed to examine participants’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to adherence in a web- and mobile app–based MHPI for a nonclinical cohort. Methods This qualitative study used inductive, reflexive thematic analysis to explore free-text responses in a postintervention evaluation of a 10-week digital MHPI. The intervention was administered using a web and mobile app from September to December 2018. Participants (N=320) were Australian and New Zealand members of a faith-based organization who self-selected into the study, owned a mobile phone with messaging capability, had an email address and internet access, were fluent in English, provided informed consent, and gave permission for their data to be used for research. The postintervention questionnaire elicited participants’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to adherence during the intervention period. Results Key factors that facilitated adherence were engaging content, time availability and management, ease of accessibility, easy or enjoyable practical challenges, high perceived value, and personal motivation to complete the intervention. The primary perceived barrier to adherence was the participants’ lack of time. Other barriers included completing and recording practical activities, length of video content, technical difficulties, and a combination of personal factors. Conclusions Time scarcity was the foremost issue for the nonclinical cohort engaged in this digital MHPI. Program developers should streamline digital interventions to minimize the time investment for participants. This may include condensed content, optimization of intuitive web and app design, simplified recording of activities, and greater participant autonomy in choosing optional features. Nonetheless, participants identified a multiplicity of other interindividual factors that facilitated or inhibited adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Elise Renfrew
- Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre, Avondale University College, Cooranbong, NSW, Australia
| | - Darren Peter Morton
- Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre, Avondale University College, Cooranbong, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Northcote
- Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre, Avondale University College, Cooranbong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason Kyle Morton
- Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre, Avondale University College, Cooranbong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason Scott Hinze
- Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre, Avondale University College, Cooranbong, NSW, Australia
| | - Geraldine Przybylko
- Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre, Avondale University College, Cooranbong, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand how and why workplace mindfulness-based programmes (MBPs) work or do not work. DESIGN A realist review. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTION We considered any studies (experimental quasi-experimental, observational, qualitative and mixed-methods studies) of workplace MBPs as long as they provided data to explain our programme theories. All MBP formats and delivery modes were included. ANALYSIS Consistent with realist review methodology, we systematically screened and analysed data to explain how and why workplace MBPs work or do not work. These explanations were consolidated into a programme theory augmented by theories from organisational literature, such as conservation of resources theory. RESULTS Findings from 75 primary studies suggest that workplace MBPs enable participants (including healthcare professionals) to deal more skillfully with stressful events and improve their well-being. The mechanisms involved can be grouped around awareness/self-regulation, acceptance/compassion, feeling permitted to take care of self, sense of growth and promise of goal attainment. In order for professionals to invest in an MBP and benefit from it, it is important that they feel safe to engage with self-care at work and share emotional difficulties among peers. It is also important that employees are able to link the programme and its activities to existing goals and practices. Concerns of being non-productive, of not getting work done or of being exposed in front of colleagues can result in strategic use of brief mindfulness exercises, non-adherence or drop-out. CONCLUSIONS Simply offering an MBP to (healthcare) professionals in order to reduce stress and enhance well-being does not suffice. A supportive environment must exist in order for the programme's benefits to be reaped. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018086280.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Micklitz
- Evidence-Based Healthcare, Department of Continuing Education, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Geoff Wong
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jeremy Howick
- Faculty of Philosophy, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Eddy A, Bergman AL, Kaplan J, Goerling RJ, Christopher MS. A Qualitative Investigation of the Experience of Mindfulness Training among Police Officers. JOURNAL OF POLICE AND CRIMINAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 36:63-71. [PMID: 34149158 PMCID: PMC8209768 DOI: 10.1007/s11896-019-09340-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Eddy
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Forest Grove, OR
| | - Aaron L Bergman
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Forest Grove, OR
| | - Josh Kaplan
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Forest Grove, OR
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Coster S, Gould RL, Coulson M, Norman IJ. An online mindfulness intervention to enhance compassion in nursing practice: A feasibility and acceptability study with nursing students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NURSING STUDIES ADVANCES 2020; 2:100004. [PMID: 38745902 PMCID: PMC11080300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnsa.2020.100004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Compassion is an important component of nursing care, but public enquiries into care failures have noted that it is not always evident. Mindfulness interventions have the potential to support compassion. However, the feasibility of delivering a mindfulness intervention at scale to nursing students has not been established. Objectives To develop and test the feasibility and acceptability of a tailored mindfulness based online intervention to foster compassion in nursing students within clinical practice. Design A randomised feasibility study with a waiting list control. Setting A UK nursing faculty within a large university. Participants Post-graduate, post-registration and pre-registration nursing students (N = 77). Methods An online five module mindfulness based intervention (Mindful Nursing Online) was developed and tailored to support compassion in clinical nursing. The feasibility study comprised 77 participants randomised in a 2:1 ratio into an immediate access group (intervention, n = 50) or a delayed access group (waiting list control, n = 27). Data on feasibility through completion, attrition and practice rates, were collected through follow-up questionnaires at post-intervention, and 14 and 20 weeks after baseline. Acceptability data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 participants. Results Non-completion rates were high with all five modules completed by only 28% (n = 14) of participants, and three modules completed by only 46% (n = 23). The most commonly cited reason for non-completion was lack of time. However, the interview data suggested those who completed the intervention were using mindfulness techniques in practice. They described feeling less stressed on the ward, having an increased focus on patients and a greater appreciation of the importance of self-care. Evaluative feedback therefore showed that the intervention was perceived to be effective at promoting mindfulness skills and was relevant to nursing work. Conclusion Minimising attrition and enhancing engagement with the intervention should be the key objectives of a future study. Feedback from participants who completed the intervention indicates that a brief mindfulness intervention delivered online may support the delivery of compassionate nursing care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Coster
- Research Fellow, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London
| | - Rebecca L. Gould
- Lecturer, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London
| | - Mark Coulson
- Associate Professor of Psychology, School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of East Anglia, London
| | - Ian James Norman
- Executive Dean, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London
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Farias M, Maraldi E, Wallenkampf KC, Lucchetti G. Adverse events in meditation practices and meditation-based therapies: a systematic review. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2020; 142:374-393. [PMID: 32820538 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Meditation techniques are widely used as therapy and wellbeing practices, but there are growing concerns about its potential for harm. The aim of the present study is to systematically review meditation adverse events (MAEs), investigating its major clinical categories and its prevalence. METHOD We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Embase and AMED up to October 2019. Eligible studies included original reports of meditation practices (excluding related physical practices such as Yoga postures) with adult samples across experimental, observational and case studies. We identified a total of 6742 citations, 83 of which met the inclusion criteria for MAEs with a total of 6703 participants who undertook meditation practice. RESULTS Of the 83 studies analysed, 55 (65%) included reports of at least one type of MAE. The total prevalence of adverse events was 8.3% (95% CI 0.05-0.12), though this varied considerably across types of studies - 3.7% (95% CI 0.02-0.05) for experimental and 33.2% (95% CI 0.25-0.41) for observational studies. The most common AEs were anxiety (33%, 18), depression (27%, 15) and cognitive anomalies (25%, 14); gastrointestinal problems and suicidal behaviours (both 11%, 6) were the least frequent. CONCLUSION We found that the occurrence of AEs during or after meditation practices is not uncommon, and may occur in individuals with no previous history of mental health problems. These results are relevant both for practitioners and clinicians, and contribute to a balanced perspective of meditation as a practice that may lead to both positive and negative outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Farias
- Brain, Belief, & Behaviour Lab, CTPSR, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - E Maraldi
- Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - K C Wallenkampf
- School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - G Lucchetti
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Brazil
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Improving anxiety in Parkinson's disease: A cautionary tale about mobile health technologies. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2020; 73:50-51. [PMID: 32248050 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2020.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Stjernswärd S, Hansson L. A Qualitative Study of Caregivers' Experiences, Motivation and Challenges Using a Web-Based Mindfulness Intervention. Community Ment Health J 2020; 56:416-425. [PMID: 31571086 PMCID: PMC7056690 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-019-00477-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Caregivers report experiences of stress and burden that can affect their health negatively. Web-based mindfulness interventions have shown beneficial health effects in clinical and non-clinical populations, including caregivers. The study's aim was to explore the experiences of a web-based mindfulness program, including motivation and challenges to use, in caregivers of a person with somatic illness. Ten participants were interviewed. Data was analyzed with content analysis, resulting in four categories illustrating the participants' experiences of the program, including motivations and barriers to training: A timely or untimely intervention; Mainly positive effects even at low levels of training; Relationship to the patient; and Creating a routine and maintaining motivation. Qualitative studies can contribute to enrich our understanding of the value of such interventions, which may be a flexible supportive tool for caregivers. The findings illuminate the importance of supporting motivation and adherence to such interventions, with the potential for enhanced beneficial outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid Stjernswärd
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Lars Hansson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00, Lund, Sweden
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Seabrook E, Kelly R, Foley F, Theiler S, Thomas N, Wadley G, Nedeljkovic M. Understanding How Virtual Reality Can Support Mindfulness Practice: Mixed Methods Study. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e16106. [PMID: 32186519 PMCID: PMC7113800 DOI: 10.2196/16106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Regular mindfulness practice has been demonstrated to be beneficial for mental health, but mindfulness can be challenging to adopt, with environmental and personal distractors often cited as challenges. Virtual reality (VR) may address these challenges by providing an immersive environment for practicing mindfulness and by supporting the user to orient attention to the present moment within a tailored virtual setting. However, there is currently a limited understanding of the ways in which VR can support or hinder mindfulness practice. Such an understanding is required to design effective VR apps while ensuring that VR-supported mindfulness is acceptable to end users. Objective This study aimed to explore how VR can support mindfulness practice and to understand user experience issues that may affect the acceptability and efficacy of VR mindfulness for users in the general population. Methods A sample of 37 participants from the general population trialed a VR mindfulness app in a controlled laboratory setting. The VR app presented users with an omnidirectional video of a peaceful forest environment with a guided mindfulness voiceover that was delivered by a male narrator. Scores on the State Mindfulness Scale, Simulator Sickness Questionnaire, and single-item measures of positive and negative emotion and arousal were measured pre- and post-VR for all participants. Qualitative feedback was collected through interviews with a subset of 19 participants. The interviews sought to understand the user experience of mindfulness practice in VR. Results State mindfulness (P<.001; Cohen d=1.80) and positive affect (P=.006; r=.45) significantly increased after using the VR mindfulness app. No notable changes in negative emotion, subjective arousal, or symptoms of simulator sickness were observed across the sample. Participants described the user experience as relaxing, calming, and peaceful. Participants suggested that the use of VR helped them to focus on the present moment by using visual and auditory elements of VR as attentional anchors. The sense of presence in the virtual environment (VE) was identified by participants as being helpful to practicing mindfulness. Interruptions to presence acted as distractors. Some uncomfortable experiences were discussed, primarily in relation to video fidelity and the weight of the VR headset, although these were infrequent and minor. Conclusions This study suggests that an appropriately designed VR app can support mindfulness practice by enhancing state mindfulness and inducing positive affect. VR may help address the challenges of practicing mindfulness by creating a sense of presence in a tailored VE; by allowing users to attend to visual and auditory anchors of their choice; and by reducing the scope of the content in users’ mind-wandering. VR has the unique capability to combine guided mindfulness practice with tailored VEs that lend themselves to support individuals to focus attention on the present moment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Seabrook
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ryan Kelly
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fiona Foley
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen Theiler
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Neil Thomas
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Greg Wadley
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Maja Nedeljkovic
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Australia
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Ribeiro L, Colgan DD, Hoke CK, Hunsinger M, Bowen S, Oken BS, Christopher MS. Differential impact of mindfulness practices on aggression among law enforcement officers. Mindfulness (N Y) 2020; 11:734-745. [PMID: 34257735 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-019-01289-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Home-based mindfulness practice is a common component of formal mindfulness training (MT) protocols. Obtaining objective data from home-based mindfulness practice is challenging. Interpreting associations between home-based mindfulness practice and clinically impactful outcomes is complicated given the variability in recommendations in length, frequency, and type of practice. In this exploratory study, adherence to home-based practices of Mindfulness-Based Resilience Training (MBRT) was studied in order to evaluate associations with clinical outcomes. Methods Home practices from 24 (92% male, non-Hispanic white, aged M = 43.20 years) law enforcement officers (LEOs) from the urban Pacific Northwest enrolled in a feasibility and efficacy trial of MBRT were studied using an objective tracking device and self-report data. Outcomes included adherence to home-based mindfulness practices and self-reported aggression. Results Participants completed 59.12% of the frequency amount of practice assigned in the MBRT curriculum. Frequency of practice was associated with decreased aggression, adjusted R 2 = .41, F(3,23) = 6.14, p = .004. Duration of practice also predicted decreased aggression, adjusted R 2 = .33, F(3,23) = 4.76, p = .011. Conclusions Home-based MBRT practices for LEOs, even at low rates of adherence, may reduce aggression. MTs may show beneficial effects for other populations presented with challenges to engage in regular MT practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Ribeiro
- School of Graduate Psychology, Clinical Psychology PhD Program, Pacific University, Hillsboro, USA
| | - Dana D Colgan
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Neurological Disorders, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Candice K Hoke
- School of Graduate Psychology, Clinical Psychology PhD Program, Pacific University, Hillsboro, USA
| | - Matthew Hunsinger
- School of Graduate Psychology, Clinical Psychology PhD Program, Pacific University, Hillsboro, USA
| | - Sarah Bowen
- School of Graduate Psychology, Clinical Psychology PhD Program, Pacific University, Hillsboro, USA
| | - Barry S Oken
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Neurological Disorders, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Michael S Christopher
- School of Graduate Psychology, Clinical Psychology PhD Program, Pacific University, Hillsboro, USA
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Hunt CA, Hoffman MA, Mohr JJ, Williams AL. Assessing Perceived Barriers to Meditation: the Determinants of Meditation Practice Inventory-Revised (DMPI-R). Mindfulness (N Y) 2020; 11:1139-1149. [PMID: 33664878 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-020-01308-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Engaging in meditation on a regular basis has been shown to enhance well-being. However, barriers to adopting it as a health behavior are poorly understood. The Determinants of Meditation Practice Inventory (DMPI) is an existing scale designed to measure perceived barriers to meditation. However, it was developed without factor analyses; thus, the dimensionality and construct validity of overall scale and/or subscale scores are unknown. Using factor analyses and tests of convergent validity, the present study explored the psychometric properties of the DMPI and presents a revised, psychometrically valid scale (The Determinants of Meditation Practice Inventory-Revised; DMPI-R). Methods Adult participants living in the USA (n = 621) provided data through an online survey platform. Extensive exploratory factor analyses were conducted (n = 311) and followed by confirmatory factor analysis (n = 310) on the best-fitting model. Convergent validity was estimated using the full sample data. Results Five items were removed because they demonstrated high residual variances and cross loaded onto multiple factors. Relationships among the remaining items were best explained by a four-factor structure with the following subscales: low perceived benefit, perceived inadequate knowledge, perceived pragmatic barriers, and perceived sociocultural conflict. Convergent validity was evidenced by associations between subscale scores and experiential avoidance, distress tolerance, and curiosity. Conclusions The multifactor structure of the DMPI-R indicates that there are multiple classes of perceived barriers on which people can vary. Validity analyses suggest that the DMPI-R is a promising measure of perceived barriers to meditation among North American adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Ann Hunt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mary Ann Hoffman
- Department of Counseling, Higher Education and Special Education, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Jonathan J Mohr
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Anna-Leila Williams
- Department of Medical Sciences, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA
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Clarke J, Draper S. Intermittent mindfulness practice can be beneficial, and daily practice can be harmful. An in depth, mixed methods study of the "Calm" app's (mostly positive) effects. Internet Interv 2019; 19:100293. [PMID: 31890639 PMCID: PMC6928287 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2019.100293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite a weak evidence base, daily use of mindfulness-based self-help smartphone applications (apps) is said to promote wellbeing. However, many do not use these apps in the way that app developers and mindfulness proponents recommend. We sought to determine whether the "Calm" app works, and whether it does so even when it is used intermittently. METHODS Employing a mixed-methods design, we recruited a self-selected sample of 269 students from a Scottish university (81% female, 84% white, mean age 23.89) to engage with a seven-day introductory mindfulness course, delivered using Calm, currently one of the most popular, yet under-researched, apps. RESULTS Daily course engagement was associated with significant gains in wellbeing (p ≤.001, d = 0.42), trait mindfulness (p ≤.001, d = 0.50) and self-efficacy (p ≤.014, d = 0.21). Intermittent course engagement was also associated with significant gains in wellbeing (p ≤.028, d = 0.34), trait mindfulness (p ≤.010, d = 0.47) and self-efficacy (p ≤.028, d = 0.32). This study is therefore the first to demonstrate that the Calm app is associated with positive mental health outcomes. It also shows that regular use is not essential. A thematic analysis of qualitative data supported these quantitative findings. However it also revealed that some participants had negative experiences with the app. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE Mindfulness-based self-help apps such as Calm have the potential to both enhance and diminish users' wellbeing. Intermittent mindfulness practice can lead to tangible benefits. Therefore, mindfulness proponents should not recommend daily practice, should increase awareness of the potential for negative outcomes, and resist the idea that mindfulness practice works for everyone. Developers of mindfulness apps ought to make specific features customisable in order to enhance their effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Clarke
- Corresponding author at: 2 Hillhead St, Glasgow G12 8QB.
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36
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The future of mindfulness training is digital, and the future is now. Curr Opin Psychol 2019; 28:81-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Kerr DC, Ornelas IJ, Lilly MM, Calhoun R, Meischke H. Participant Engagement in and Perspectives on a Web-Based Mindfulness Intervention for 9-1-1 Telecommunicators: Multimethod Study. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e13449. [PMID: 31219045 PMCID: PMC6607772 DOI: 10.2196/13449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Demanding working conditions and secondary exposure to trauma may contribute to a high burden of stress among 9-1-1 telecommunicators, decreasing their ability to work effectively and efficiently. Web-based mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) can be effective in reducing stress in similar populations. However, low engagement may limit the effectiveness of the intervention. Objective The aim of this study was to assess participant engagement in a Web-based MBI designed for 9-1-1 telecommunicators. Specifically, we sought to describe the following: (1) participant characteristics associated with intervention engagement, (2) participant perspectives on engaging with the intervention, and (3) perceived challenges and facilitators to engaging. Methods We used qualitative and quantitative data from participant surveys (n=149) that were collected to assess the efficacy of the intervention. We conducted descriptive and bivariate analyses to identify associations between demographic, psychosocial, and workplace characteristics and engagement. We conducted a thematic analysis of qualitative survey responses to describe participant experiences with the MBI. Results We found that no individual participant characteristics were associated with the level of engagement (low vs high number of lessons completed). Participant engagement did vary by the call center (P<.001). We identified the following overarching qualitative themes: (1) the participants perceived benefits of mindfulness practice, (2) the participants perceived challenges to engage with mindfulness and the intervention, and (3) intervention components that facilitated engagement. The participants expressed positive beliefs in the perceived benefits of practicing mindfulness, including increased self-efficacy in coping with stressors and increased empathy with callers. The most commonly cited barriers were work-related, particularly not having time to participate in the intervention at work. Facilitators included shorter meditation practices and the availability of multiple formats and types of intervention content. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that efforts to improve intervention engagement should focus on organizational-level factors rather than individual participant characteristics. Future research should explore the effect of mindfulness practice on the efficiency and effectiveness of 9-1-1 telecommunicators at work. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02961621; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02961621
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Affiliation(s)
- Darragh C Kerr
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - India J Ornelas
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Michelle M Lilly
- Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, United States
| | - Rebecca Calhoun
- Northwest Center for Public Health Practice, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Hendrika Meischke
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Northwest Center for Public Health Practice, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Stjernswärd S, Hansson L. Effectiveness and usability of a web-based mindfulness intervention for caregivers of people with mental or somatic illness. A randomized controlled trial. Internet Interv 2018; 12:46-56. [PMID: 30135768 PMCID: PMC6096325 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid Stjernswärd
- Lund University, Department of Health Sciences, Box 157, 221 50 Lund, Sweden
| | - Lars Hansson
- Lund University, Department of Health Sciences, Sweden
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Christopher MS, Hunsinger M, Goerling LRJ, Bowen S, Rogers BS, Gross CR, Dapolonia E, Pruessner JC. Mindfulness-based resilience training to reduce health risk, stress reactivity, and aggression among law enforcement officers: A feasibility and preliminary efficacy trial. Psychiatry Res 2018; 264:104-115. [PMID: 29627695 PMCID: PMC6226556 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.03.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to assess feasibility and gather preliminary outcome data on Mindfulness-Based Resilience Training (MBRT) for law enforcement officers. Participants (n = 61) were randomized to either an 8-week MBRT course or a no intervention control group. Self-report and physiological data were collected at baseline, post-training, and three months following intervention completion. Attendance, adherence, post-training participant feedback, and interventionist fidelity to protocol all demonstrated feasibility of MBRT for law enforcement officers. Compared to no intervention controls, MBRT participants experienced greater reductions in salivary cortisol, self-reported aggression, organizational stress, burnout, sleep disturbance, and reported increases in psychological flexibility and non-reactivity at post-training; however, group differences were not maintained at three-month follow-up. This initial randomized trial suggests MBRT is a feasible intervention. Outcome data suggest MBRT targets key physiological, psychological, and health risk factors in law enforcement officers, consistent with the potential to improve officer health and public safety. However, follow-up training or "booster" sessions may be needed to maintain training gains. A fully powered longitudinal randomized trial is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew Hunsinger
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
| | - Lt Richard J Goerling
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA; Mindful Badge Initiative, Hillsboro, OR, USA
| | - Sarah Bowen
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
| | - Brant S Rogers
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA; Stress Reduction Clinic, Hillsboro, OR, USA
| | - Cynthia R Gross
- College of Pharmacy and School of Nursing, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Eli Dapolonia
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
| | - Jens C Pruessner
- Departments of Psychology, Psychiatry, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Douglas Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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