Healthcare Worker Research Study
Thomas Jefferson University is conducting a research study on mindfulness meditation for workers in the healthcare setting.
Fast Facts
Work in Healthcare
Experience Significant Distress Associated with Work
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Philadelphia, PA
Study Background
Researchers at TJU are evaluating the use of the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program in healthcare workers.
This study is being performed in order to determine if the MBSR program is helpful for reducing stress and anxiety in workers in the healthcare setting. This study builds on prior research by our group and others that shows the MBSR program can be helpful in different populations.
Participants will attend two in-person study visits, which include meeting with a counselor and undergoing a functional MRI scan. Participants will also complete the MBSR program virtually, where they will learn various stress management skills and meditation techniques.
Findings from this study will determine if the MBSR program is useful for reducing stress in healthcare workers, and whether such improvements correlate with neurophysiological changes based on fMRI scans.
Study Background
Researchers at TJU are evaluating the use of the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program in healthcare workers.
This study is being performed in order to determine if the MBSR program is helpful for reducing stress and anxiety in workers in the healthcare setting. This study builds on prior research by our group and others that shows the MBSR program can be helpful in different populations.
Participants will attend two in-person study visits, which include meeting with a counselor and undergoing a functional MRI scan. Participants will also complete the MBSR program virtually, where they will learn various stress management skills and meditation techniques.
Findings from this study will determine if the MBSR program is useful for reducing stress in healthcare workers, and whether such improvements correlate with neurophysiological changes based on fMRI scans.
Additional Information
The purpose of this study is to determine if the MBSR program is helpful for reducing stress and anxiety in workers in the healthcare setting.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Work in healthcare (e.g., physician, nurse, PA, therapist, psychologist, technician, coach, general staff)
- Experience significant distress associated with work
- No significant active psychiatric conditions (prior depression or anxiety is acceptable)
- No active medical or neurological conditions (stable conditions such as controlled high blood pressure are acceptable)
- No history of brain surgery
- Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)
- If female, not pregnant
Once enrolled, this study involves:
- Attending two diagnostic visits at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health Center in Villanova, PA (approximately 2 hours each, separated by 3 months)
- Meet with a counselor (approximately 1 hour)
- Undergo a functional MRI scan (approximately 1 hour)
- Completing the standard MBSR program (8 weekly, two-hour virtual sessions)
- Learn various stress management skills and meditation techniques
- Complete 20-30 minutes of “homework” each day
Compensation is $25 per scan for up to $50 for participation. Participants will also undergo the MBSR program for free.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
