The effect of mindfulness-based training on stress, anxiety, depression and job satisfaction among ward nurses: A randomized control trial

Abstract

Aim: To assess the effect of a 4-week mindfulness-based training intervention on improving stress, anxiety, depression and job satisfaction among ward nurses.

Background: Previous literature showed that mindfulness-based training is useful for helping nurses cope with stress.

Method: Nurses who have mild to moderate levels of stress, anxiety and depression identified from a teaching hospital were invited to a randomized control trial. The intervention group had a 2-hr Mindfulness-Based Training workshop, followed by 4 weeks of guided self-practice Mindfulness-Based Training website. Both the intervention group (n = 118) and the control group (n = 106) were evaluated pre- and post-intervention, and 8 weeks later (follow-up) using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21, Job Satisfaction Scale and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale.

Results: There was a significant effect over time on stress, anxiety, depression and mindfulness level (p < .05). Regarding the difference between the groups and interaction between time and group, there was a significant effect for anxiety (p = .037 p = .008) and job satisfaction (p < .001, p = .40), respectively, with moderate effect size for anxiety reduction (.465) and small for job satisfaction increment (.221).

Conclusion: Mindfulness-Based Training is effective in improving anxiety and job satisfaction among nurses.

Clinical implications for nursing management: Mindfulness-Based Training can be included as hospital policy to reduce anxiety and increase job satisfaction among nurses.

Keywords: anxiety; depression; job satisfaction; mindfulness; nurses; stress.