Mindfulness-Based Programs in the Workplace: a Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Objectives Given the complex demands of many workplaces, there is growing interest in the potential beneficial effects of mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) for employees. This meta-analysis systematically synthesizes the results of randomized controlled studies conducted in various workplace settings. Methods Eligible studies were identified by a systematic literature search in four electronic databases and complementary manual search strategies through 11/2018. Random-effects models were used to synthesize data across 56 studies including n = 2689 participants and n = 2472 controls. The validity of synthesized effect size estimates was analyzed for heterogeneity and influential cases (outliers). Risk of bias was assessed following Cochrane recommendations. Results Analyses of between-group effects indicated that MBPs effectively reduce stress, burnout, mental distress, and somatic complaints, while improving mindfulness, well-being, compassion, and job satisfaction-all with small to large effect sizes ranging from Hedge's g = 0.32 to 0.77. Results were maintained in follow-up assessments ≤ 12 weeks. Heterogeneity among primary studies was not explained consistently by program or participant characteristics in the exploratory moderator analyses. Results on work engagement and productivity were limited by low numbers of primary studies with outliers among their effect sizes. Conclusions Our meta-analysis provides evidence that MBPs effectively promote the health and well-being of employees in various occupational settings. Further research is needed to investigate potential benefits on work-related outcomes and effects for longer-term follow-ups.

Mindfulness-based programmes for mental health promotion in adults in nonclinical settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

“…Trials assessing MBPs in nonclinical settings have quickly accumulated in recent years. Systematic reviews have synthesised findings from MBPs from educators [11,12], parents [13], caregivers [14,15], healthcare professionals [16][17][18][19][20][21], athletes [22], working adults [23][24][25][26][27], older adults [28], university students [29][30][31], and the general population [32][33][34][35][36], primarily focusing on wellness and mental health outcomes. Most, but by no means all results favour MBPs over comparison conditions.…”

A nature-based health intervention at a military healthcare center: a randomized, controlled, cross-over study

“…In addition, our self-report data show that a walk on the Green Road, supported by instructions to mindfully stay present, resulted in increases in mindfulness and decreases in stress levels compared to walking on the Urban Road corroborating qualitative findings. Present moment orientation is a key component of mindfulness, and the benefits of mindfulness and its impact on stress reduction have been strongly supported by the literature (Ameli et al, 2020;Shapiro et al, 2005;Vonderlin et al, 2020). We believe that the adoption of guidance to stay present and mindful, which also captures the unique qualities and characteristics of intentional natural environments, can enhance their positive impact.…”

A randomized controlled trial to improve psychological detachment from work and well-being among employees: a study protocol comparing online CBT-based and mindfulness interventions

“…Such a delivery has several advantages over more traditional on-site interventions, including the increased potential to attract people who might otherwise not decide to enroll in mental health interventions because of the stigma associated with them [45], people with busy schedules, and resulting time constraints [46] and people who live in rural and remote areas [47]. Perhaps even more importantly, an increasing body of literature suggests that online CBT-based and mindfulness interventions can improve outcomes related to work stress and well-being and may even be as effective as conventional face-to-face training (e.g., [15,[48][49][50][51][52][53]).…”