Self-Compassion and Mindfulness for Healthcare Staff: A Brief Hybrid Intervention to Mitigate Stress and Burnout in Hospital Authority

Abstract Description

Authors (including presenting author) :

MOK, C. L. Michelle, SIN, K. M., CHEAH, A. K. M., CHENG, T. N., CHEUNG, S., HO, H. H. Holly, LAW, Y. Y., LEE, S. L. Michael, LUI, W. S., POON, W. Y. Venessa, SO, Y., SZE, M. T., TAM, C. Y., TONG, M. Y., WONG, H. W., WONG, H. K., NG. J., TAM, W. Y. Karen

Affiliation :

Corporate Clinical Psychology Services, Head Office, Hospital Authority

Keyword 1: :

Self-compassion

Keyword 2: :

Mindfulness

Keyword 3: :

Staff Wellbeing

Keyword 4: :

Staff Wellness

Keyword 5: :

Burnout

Keyword 6: :

Stress management

Introduction :

Background: Healthcare professionals in Hospital Authority (HA) face work-related stress and risk of burnout. Self-compassion and mindfulness interventions demonstrated efficacy for supporting healthcare worker resilience. This study evaluated a brief, guided self-compassion and mindfulness intervention delivered as part of a broader campaign within HA.

Objectives :

N/A

Methodology :

Methods: A 15-minute, hybrid (in-person/ Zoom) intervention was delivered weekly over four months (June–September 2025), with three daily sessions. Each session comprised a guided self-compassion and mindfulness exercise and psychoeducation, facilitated by a clinical psychologist. Quantitative data were collected via post-session surveys, including 5-point Likert ratings and pre- and post-intervention stress scores.

Result & Outcome :

Results: Across 60 sessions, there were 1,481 attendances from staff representing most job ranks and hospital clusters. In total, 981 valid paired pre-post stress ratings were analyzed. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed a significant reduction in self-reported stress following the intervention (W = 103,771.0, Z = -7.09, p < .001, r = 0.23, n = 981), indicating a small-to-moderate effect size. A Kruskal Wallis test showed statistically significant difference between job ranks (H(52) = 74.5, p < .001). Post-hoc Dunn’s tests with Bonferroni correction indicated that Advanced Practice Nurses experienced significantly greater stress reduction compared to supporting staff (p < .001). Session satisfaction was high (mean rating = 4.2, SD = 0.8), with 80.5% of participants rating the experience positively. Thematic analysis identified four key themes: (1) stress reduction and relaxation; (2) appreciation for new learning; (3) increased accessibility via online delivery; and (4) a soothing, guided experience. Recommendations included improving session lighting, enhancing facilitator visibility, and offering after-work sessions. Conclusions: This brief, guided self-compassion and mindfulness intervention was effective and well-received across diverse HA staff groups. Statistically significant stress reduction and high satisfaction were observed. Participant feedback will inform further program development to optimize accessibility and impact on staff wellbeing. Details of the DIY taster session as another intervention within the campaign are provided in a separate abstract.