Resilience@Work Mindfulness Program: Results From a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial With First Responders

This study tested an online mindfulness-based resilience training program for firefighters. Compared to a control group, participants who completed the program showed improved ability to cope with stress and adapt to difficult situations, with the strongest gains seen at 6 months. The effect was larger among those who completed most sessions. The program also improved coping behaviors like seeking support and taking action under stress. However, it did not significantly improve rapid “bounce-back” recovery. The findings suggest short, online resilience training can strengthen workforce mental readiness over time, especially in high-stress roles like emergency response.

Date published:
February 19, 2019
Citatation:
Joyce, S., Shand, F., Lal, T. J., Mott, B., Bryant, R. A., & Harvey, S. B. (2019). Resilience@Work Mindfulness Program: Results From a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial With First Responders. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 21(2), e12894. https://doi.org/10.2196/12894

Evidence At A Glance


Study Type:
Quantitative
Study Design:
Randomized allocation study (RCT, pretest-posttest control group, factorial design)
Study Outcomes:
Acceptability, Effectiveness

Target Population:
Clinical healthcare workers
Disaster Type:
All hazards
Intervention Target Level:
Individual level

Intervention Area:

Public health incident management:
  • Operational risk, safety, & security
  • Workforce development, training & coordination
Surge management:
  • Medical surge
Effective Intervention
Yes