Changes in perceived stress during a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) intervention predicting occupational recovery from work-related stress: a longitudinal study

Purpose: The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) group intervention is increasingly being used in clinics to alleviate stress-related symptoms. The aim was to evaluate the association between pre-post changes in levels of perceived stress during the MBSR program and occupational recovery from prolonged work-related stress. Potential moderators of the association were assessed. Methods This study was based on secondary analyses of pre-existing data from 450 patients commencing an MBSR program between 15 October 2015 and 2 April 2019. Data on clinical, sociodemographic, and psychosocial factors were collected via an online survey administered at baseline and the end of the MBSR program. Pre-post changes in levels of perceived stress were evaluated using Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). The outcome was stable (versus unstable) employment for at least four consecutive weeks evaluated at 26-week and 52-week follow-ups. Missing data were managed with multiple imputation. Associations were analyzed using logistic regression, with adjustment for confounding factors from clinical, occupational, and psychosocial factors in the latest held job. Results The average reduction in PSS-10 scores was 5.0 (SD = 5.5). Each one-point pre-post reduction on the PSS-10 scale was associated with a lower risk of full-time sick-leave at 26-week (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.20) and 52-week follow-up (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.09, 1.30). None of these associations were moderated by any predictors. Conclusion A greater reduction in levels of perceived stress during participation in an MBSR program, predicts enhanced occupational recovery from long-term work-related stress.