| More than 50% of US workers report high levels of job-related stress. Low socioeconomic status (SES) is strongly associated with chronic work-related stress and disproportionate morbidity resulting in SES-related health disparities. Workplace stress management is named as a national priority, yet those who may benefit the most, low SES workers have rarely been targeted for stress management interventions. Research supports the efficacy of mindfulness-based programs to improve stress-related health outcomes among clinical and non-clinical populations.;Tailored by the findings of two preliminary studies, a proposed 5-week mindfulness skills training program (MST) targeted low SES workers for stress management. Behavioral and informational interventions have been delivered successfully via technology to diverse populations. Here, incorporating technology could also increase accessibility and affordability over some other mindfulness programs.;The specific aims of this study were to (a) assess the feasibility and acceptability of the delivery of the intervention among low SES workers, (b) examine the effect of the intervention (MST vs. attention control treatment) on post-intervention Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) scores, and Mindful Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS) scores, (c) explore the relationships among (d) in exploratory analyses, examine the effect of the intervention (MST vs. attention control) on a set of secondary outcome variables (i.e., moods, physical symptoms, sleep disturbance, coping behaviors, pulse, and blood pressure).;Using an experimental design, participants were randomized to an experimental or attention control group. Data were collected at baseline, immediately after completion of the intervention, and at 4-week follow-up. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the sample. Predicted relationships among outcome variables were explored using Pearson's Product Moment correlations. General linear mixed model analyses were used to examine the effects of Time, Treatment, and the interaction of Time X Treatment. The findings from this study will be used to inform the design of future interventions for populations at high-risk for chronic stress. |
