A Multimodal Mindfulness Training to Address Mental Health Symptoms in Providers Who Care for and Interact With Children in Relation to End-of-Life Care. (November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: O'Mahony, Sean; Gerhart, James; Abrams, Ira; Greene, Michelle; McFadden, Rory; Tamizuddin, Sara; Levy, Mitchell M.
• Is Part Of: American journal of hospice & palliative care. Volume 34:Number 9(2017)
• Page Start: 838
• Page End: 843
• Publication Date: 2017-11
• Subjects: palliative care -- mindfulness -- burnout -- resilience -- health-care providers -- compassion fatigue; Hospice care -- Periodicals; Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; 362.175
• DOI: 10.1177/1049909116660688
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-9091

Abstract

Aim: Medical providers may face unique emotional challenges when confronted with the suffering of chronically ill, dying, and bereaved children. This study assessed the preliminary outcomes of participation in a group-based multimodal mindfulness training pilot designed to reduce symptoms of burnout and mental health symptoms in providers who interact with children in the context of end-of-life care. Methods: A total of 13 medical providers who care for children facing life-threatening illness or bereaved children participated in a 9-session multimodal mindfulness session. Mental health symptoms and burnout were assessed prior to the program, at the program midpoint, and at the conclusion of the program. Results: Participation in the pilot was associated with significant reductions in depressive and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among providers ( P < .05). Conclusion: Mindfulness-based programs may help providers recognize and address symptoms of depression and PTSD. Additional research is needed to enhance access and uptake of programming among larger groups of participants.