Developing self-compassion and well-being with a hybrid mindfulness-based intervention: Lessons learned from health professions students, faculty and staff.
Journal of American college health : J of ACH – June 25, 2025
Source: PubMed
Summary
A recent program found that a hybrid approach to mindfulness can significantly boost self-compassion. Health profession students, faculty, and staff participated in a program incorporating mindfulness practices, similar to MBSR. Findings revealed a notable increase in self-compassion and improved well-being, particularly for faculty and staff. This suggests such interventions are highly effective for enhancing self-compassion and well-being in demanding healthcare environments.
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine whether participation in a hybrid mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) is associated with lower level of perceived stress, and higher levels of self-compassion and well-being. Participants: Participants were 73 students (Physician Assistant, Nursing, and Occupational Therapy) and faculty/staff in a Northeastern university. Methods: This study employed a quantitative pretest, post-test design in which MBI outcomes were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale, the short Self-Compassion Scale, and the Well-Being Index through a Wilcoxon test. Results: Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis reveal a statistically significant improvement in self-compassion scores (Z = 3.254, p = .001); non-statistically significant improvements in perceived stress (Z = .909, p = .364); and a statistically significant improvement in well-being scores for faculty/staff (Z = 1.841, p = .066). Conclusion: This pilot study highlights the potential of a hybrid MBI to help health professions students and faculty/staff improve self-compassion and well-being.