Mindfulness-Based Program for Anxiety and Depression Treatment in Healthcare Professionals: A Pilot Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Psychology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Primary health care work environments contribute to high anxiety and depression levels among professionals.
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is recognized for mitigating anxiety and depression symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of standard versus abbreviated MBSR curricula in reducing anxiety and depression.
• To evaluate the long-term effects of MBSR interventions on mental well-being in healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 112 mentors and resident specialists from Family and Community Medicine and Nurses (FCMN).
• Participants received either standard or abbreviated MBSR training.
• Anxiety and depression levels were assessed using the Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale (GADS) pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• The standard MBSR program significantly reduced anxiety and depression post-intervention, with effects sustained at 3 months (p < 0.05).
• The abbreviated MBSR program did not yield statistically significant reductions in anxiety or depression levels.
• Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) indicated significant improvements associated with the standard MBSR training (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Standard MBSR training is effective in alleviating anxiety and depression among healthcare professionals, offering sustained benefits.
• Abbreviated MBSR programs require further research to establish their effectiveness.
• Standard MBSR should be considered for implementation to support the mental health of healthcare providers.