Insights gained from fundamental research on well-being are being used to develop well-being programmes for groups of workers, beginning with those in high stress occupations.
There is growing evidence that techniques which encourage the mindful awareness of one's sensations, thoughts, and feelings, or techniques which increase the frequency of positive emotions can have beneficial effects on well-being, health, relationships, and productivity. In collaboration with the Cambridge Centre for Occupational Health, we plan to compare a standard mindfulness technique with a new, brief method for increasing mindfulness and positive emotions. The standard MBSR technique has proven effectiveness but is time- and resource-intensive; the newly developed technique is largely self-administered and may be a practical alternative. These interventions will be compared in a randomised controlled trial of nursing staff at Addenbrooke's Hospital, with a view to applying similar methods to other workers in demanding and stressful jobs, such as teachers.
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