Permalink: http://hdl.handle.net/1866/24069
Changes in hair cortisol and self-reported stress measures following mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) : a proof-of-concept study in pediatric hematology-oncology professionals
Article [Accepted Manuscript]
Abstract(s)
Background and purpose
Little data is available on the effect of mindfulness amongst pediatric hematology-oncology professionals. The purpose was to further document change in biological and psychological stress following a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program.
Materials and methods
We led two pre-post interventional studies (n = 12 and n = 25) and measured changes on hair cortisol concentrations, perceived stress, psychological distress and burnout.
Results
Professionals did not change on biological stress (d = 0.04), but improved on self-reported measures (median d = 0.58). Effects were maintained over 3 months for psychological distress, anxiety, depression, and burnout (median d = 0.66). Effects were larger if trainees participated to the retreat and if they reported higher baseline perceived stress.
Conclusion
In pediatric hematology-oncology professionals, an MBSR program was related with improvements in self-reported stress over 3 months. Components of the program and characteristics of trainees may influence the impact of MBSR.