Systematic review: complementary therapies and employee well-being
J M Ravalier1, P Wegrzynek2, S Lawton2
1School of Society, Enterprise and Environment, Bath Spa University, Bath BA2 9BN, UK. j.ravalier@bathspa.ac.uk.
Occupational Medicine (Oxford, England)
|April 7, 2016
Summary
Workplace mindfulness and meditation programs show promise for enhancing employee well-being and productivity. While effective in the short term, further research is needed to confirm long-term benefits.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Workplace interventions aim to reduce stress and boost productivity.
- The effectiveness of many workplace interventions remains uncertain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of complementary therapies on employee well-being in the workplace.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of studies published between 2000 and 2015.
- Searched multiple databases (e.g., PubMed, PsycINFO) and reference lists.
- Included only peer-reviewed, English-language articles with valid outcome measures.
Main Results:
- Ten studies were included from 131 identified.
- Mindfulness and meditation interventions were most effective for improving workplace health and performance.
- Some evidence suggests sustained benefits for mindfulness and meditation up to 3 months.
Conclusions:
- Mindfulness and meditation may enhance psychosocial workplace health and performance.
- Long-term efficacy of these interventions requires further investigation.
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