Intensive Mindfulness-based Resilience Training in First Responders : A Pilot Study

Canady, B.E. and Zullig, K.J. and Brumage, M.R. and Goerling, R. (2021) Intensive Mindfulness-based Resilience Training in First Responders : A Pilot Study. Health Behavior and Policy Review, 8 (1). pp. 60-70. ISSN 2326-4403

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to test a mindfulness-based intervention for first responders offered in a compressed, residential immersion format (MBRT-I). Methods: Participants (N = 31) attended a 2.5-day immersion training to receive training in MBRT-I, with a booster session 30 days later. Self-report data measuring aspects of stress and health were collected at baseline, immediately following MBRT-I training, 30 days after MBRT-I training, and 90 days after MBRT-I training. Results: Participants reported significant improvements in emotional intelligence, emotional regulation, occupational stress, and fatigue (p < .05), with further trends approaching statistical significance regarding perceived stress, anger, and mindfulness. Conclusions: Whereas larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to establish the efficacy of this intervention, preliminary results suggest a compressed-format version of MBRT is (1) feasible, and (2) may be beneficial in reducing stress, anger, and fatigue, and improving likely mediators of positive health outcomes, such as emotional regulation and mindfulness among a broad range of first responders.