Pilot study of an online brief mindfulness-based intervention to improve the well-being of managers and reduce their stress at work

• Published in: International journal of occupational safety and ergonomics Vol. 30; no. 3; pp. 858 - 866
• Main Authors: Asensio-Martínez, Ángela, Adame, Lorena, Aguilar-Latorre, Alejandra, Millán, Benito, Domínguez-García, Marta, Magallón-Botaya, Rosa
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Taylor & Francis 02-07-2024
• Subjects: emotional regulation; job stress; managers; mindfulness; online intervention; job stress; emotional regulation; mindfulness; online intervention; managers
• ISSN: 1080-3548; 2376-9130; 2376-9130
• DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2024.2358676

Objectives. The COVID-19 pandemic, remote work and new technologies have heightened workplace pressures. Effective response and essential organizational changes require business leaders to be more adaptable, with managers' presence playing a pivotal role in successful implementation. The study assesses a brief mindfulness-based emotional regulation for managers (MBERM) intervention, to reduce workplace stress and enhance managerial well-being. Methods. An 8-week non-randomized controlled trial was conducted with a waiting list control group and an intervention group. Pre-post differences were measured by Student's t test or Wilcoxon test, and effect size calculated using the Hedge's g formula. The sample included 23 managers (17 men and six women) with average age 50 years. The study assessed anxiety and depressive symptoms, psychological flexibility, perceived self-efficacy, general work-related well-being, perceived stress and mindfulness. Results. Statistically significant changes were observed in the intervention group in depression, anxiety, work-related acceptance and action, general self-efficacy, exhaustion, alienation, stress and non-reactivity. The control group showed no statistically significant changes in any of the variables. Conclusion. The MBERM intervention could improve the emotional and work-related well-being of managers and reduce stress levels and burnout. Further study of this intervention is needed to promote adherence and ensure a long-term improvement.