A mixed method research project, investigating healthcare professional’s perception of the worth of participating in an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction programme, and the perceived correlation it has with increased work satisfaction and ability to self-manage stress within the working environment

Work-related stress, burnout and compassion fatigue are an increasing concern for healthcare professionals within their working environment. In order to combat the onset of work-related stress, burnout and compassion fatigue it is necessary for both management and employees to take responsibility for identifying resolutions to address these concerns. The Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme is one strategy which has been introduced and researched in order to equip healthcare professionals with the appropriate tools and techniques to assist them in coping with and striving to overcome these issues. The research pertaining to this concept is predominantly quantitative thus presenting a gap in the literature as there is no exploration of participant perceptions of or beliefs about the benefits of engaging in the MBSR programme. Participants coping strategies and level of work satisfaction are the focal points of this dissertation. A cross-sectional approach was taken in which a mixed method survey was developed and distributed to participants of a recent MBSR programme facilitated in Organisation X. The data was analysed using both descriptive and thematic analysis. The findings of this research project support the literature, that completion of the MBSR programme introduces additional adaptive coping strategies which participants find useful in both personal and professional stressful situations. The findings indicate that the MBSR programme leads to a greater sense of work satisfaction, participants commented that they are better equipped with techniques to self-manage themselves within their work environment. In addition it was identified that there is limited understanding of the MBSR programme amongst participants prior to engagement. Whilst changes in stress levels were not captured, the findings in this research are advantageous as they provide an indication of the benefits which can be gained from participating in the programme and support the continuation of the MBSR programme in Organisation X. The limitations of this project and recommendations for future research are set out