Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Formative Research
Date Submitted: Jun 8, 2022
Open Peer Review Period: Jun 8, 2022 - Aug 3, 2022
Date Accepted: Dec 22, 2022
(closed for review but you can still tweet)
Warning: This is an author submission that is not peer-reviewed or edited. Preprints - unless they show as "accepted" - should not be relied on to guide clinical practice or health-related behavior and should not be reported in news media as established information.
Pilot study of an online mind-body tactical resilience training program for first responders: A feasibility, acceptability, and usability study
ABSTRACT
Background:
First responders are regularly exposed to trauma, yet many are reluctant to engage in conventional mental health programs aimed at prevention or early intervention. There is emerging evidence for preventative programs that target cognitive and behavioural change, as well as programs that integrate both physical and mental training such as mindfulness and yoga training. However, acceptability amongst first responders and the feasibility of delivering this type of training online is not yet known.
Objective:
This pilot study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of an online mind-body tactical resilience training program designed for first responders. Additionally, we aim to examine the preliminary effectiveness of the training program on mental health outcomes, adaptive cognitive strategies and improved work productivity.
Methods:
A total of 42 first responders based in the United States enrolled in the online training program. Participants were administered questionnaires prior to enrolling in the 6-week online program and at the end of program. Primary outcomes of feasibility, acceptability, and usability was measured using self-reported data and program adherence statistics. Secondary outcomes measured symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychological distress, emotion regulation, stress mindset, psychological preparedness, and work performance.
Results:
Overall, the training program was well-received with high self-reported scores for feasibility and acceptability, as well as engagement data. The median number of hours spent on the online program was 7.57 hours, with an adherence rate of 42.9%. Those who responded to the follow-up assessment reported significant improvement in stress mindset compared to baseline, with a mean increase of 5.42 (95% CI: -8.475, -2.358, t11=-3.898, P=.002). A marginally significant trend in reduced PTSD symptoms was also found, with a mean decrease of 1.58 (95% CI: -0.007, 3.174, t11=2.191, P =.051). All other secondary outcomes were not significant.
Conclusions:
These findings suggest that a mind-body tactical resilience training program delivered in an online format is feasible and acceptable amongst first responders and may alter some key cognitive stress mindsets and PTSD symptom levels. Further research is warranted to examine the effectiveness of this type of resilience training in preventing the development of mental disorders within this population. Clinical Trial: ACTRN12621000471886
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