A protocol for assessing the readiness for practicing meditation (manan dhyana) as a tool for reduction of stress among high-risk occupations

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2021

Publication Title

Giornale Italiano di Psicolgia e Medicina del Lavoro (Italian Journal of Psychology and Occupational Health)

Volume

1

Issue

1

First page number:

105

Last page number:

116

Abstract

Stress is inescapable in contemporary times. The workplace offers unique challenges and some specific stressors are unique to working which if not managed can lead to a plethora of negative sequelae. Some occupations are particularly prone to high stress and burnout. Spirituality at workplace could be used to address poor mental health outcomes. The purpose of this article is to introduce to the researchers a theory-based protocol for assessing the readiness toward practicing introspective meditations (manan dhyana), an Eastern approach based on yoga, to combat occupational stress in high-stress professions. The protocol utilizes the multi-theory model (MTM) of health behavior change and presents a questionnaire based on it for administration in a cross-sectional survey design to test the model. If the model is found to be significant then it can be used to design interventions that promote introspective meditations (manan dhyana) for high-stress occupations. Such interventions can first be pilot tested, then tested for efficacy, and finally, if found efficacious, can be replicated in effectiveness studies. This kind of intervention can be used in the framework of workplace health programs to advance worker’s mental well-being.

Keywords

Coping; meditation; mindfulness; occupational stress; stress management; yoga.

Disciplines

Psychiatric and Mental Health


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