A study identifies which healthcare professionals respond best to a digital stress management program

The MINDxYOU analysis points to a greater reduction in stress among nurses and professionals with more depressive symptoms at the outset. The results pave the way for personalizing digital mental health interventions based on each professional's psychological and occupational characteristics.

Having previously demonstrated that the MINDxYOU program can reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in healthcare professionals, a new study now examines a key question: which individuals can benefit most from this digital intervention. The results suggest that the response to the program varies according to certain psychological and professional characteristics.

The study, led by the Basic, Clinical, and Epidemiological Research Group in Mental Health at IBIMA's BIONAND Platform and the Mental Health Clinical Management Unit of the Regional University Hospital of Málaga, analyzed data from 347 healthcare professionals. Nursing staff showed a greater reduction in perceived stress than that observed among medical staff and other professional profiles.

A step towards more personalized interventions

The study also identified a more favorable response among those who had more severe depressive symptoms before starting the program. Furthermore, individuals with higher baseline scores in the ability to consciously observe their sensations, thoughts, and emotions experienced a greater reduction in stress.

These results do not imply that MINDxYOU is only useful for these profiles, but rather provide preliminary information about the characteristics that may influence the response. The research thus advances towards a more personalized digital mental health model, in which the content, support, and intensity of interventions can be adapted to the needs of each professional.

How does MINDxYOU work?

MINDxYOU is an eight-week, self-guided web program that integrates mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance strategies. Through videos, audio with guided practices, and interactive exercises, participants develop skills related to emotional regulation, resilience, and psychological flexibility. Throughout the program, they also received weekly support via WhatsApp, phone, or email to encourage continued participation.

Its digital format facilitates access from various devices and allows it to be adapted to common challenges in healthcare work, such as rotating shifts, high patient volume, or lack of time. This flexibility makes it suitable for incorporation into strategies to support the emotional well-being of healthcare staff.

An exploratory analysis that will need to be confirmed

This research is a secondary analysis of a cluster-randomized clinical trial, and its conclusions should be interpreted with caution. The sample consisted primarily of women, and self-report questionnaires were used. Furthermore, given the numerous factors assessed, the authors note that the results are exploratory and should be replicated in future studies specifically designed to confirm which profiles respond best.

The study involved researchers from the Basic, Clinical and Epidemiological Research Group in Mental Health, IBIMA BIONAND Platform, the Clinical Management Unit of Mental Health of the Regional University Hospital of Malaga and the Aragon Health Research Institute.

Following these results, the team is already working on implementation within the Andalusian Health Service (SAS), under the Regional Ministry of the Presidency, Health, and Emergencies, through the IM-MIND-SAS project (Implementation of an online psychotherapy program for the mental health of social and healthcare professionals in the SAS). This study will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability of incorporating the program into routine clinical practice, with the aim of facilitating its implementation as a tool for promoting the emotional well-being of healthcare professionals.

Source: Europa Press