Mindfulness Intervention Mitigates  Trauma-Induced Cognitive Decline  Among Healthcare Professionals

Shereen; Syeda Farah Batool; Ayesha Maryam; Syeda Akmal Sultan

doi:10.29052/2412-3188.v10.i2.2023.84-90

Authors

Shereen Department of Medical Technology, Malir University of Science & Technology, Karachi-Pakistan.
Syeda Farah Batool Department of Psychology, Malir University of Science & Technology, Karachi-Pakistan.
Ayesha Maryam Department of Medical Technology, Malir University of Science & Technology, Karachi-Pakistan
Syeda Akmal Sultan Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Physiotherapy, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Institute of Trauma, Karachi-Pakistan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29052/2412-3188.v10.i2.2023.84-90

Keywords:

Mindfulness Intervention, Trauma-Induced Cognitive Decline, Healthcare Professionals, Cognitive Function, Burnout, Perceived Stress

Abstract

Background: Healthcare professionals are vulnerable to trauma-induced cognitive decline due to their exposure to traumatic events in the workplace. Mindfulness-based interventions have shown promise in mitigating stress and improving cognitive function. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a mindfulness intervention on trauma-induced cognitive decline among healthcare professionals.

Methodology: A comparative cohort study was conducted with 54 participants randomly assigned to intervention (n=25) and control (n=24) groups. The intervention group received an eight-week mindfulness program, while the control group received no intervention. Cognitive function, burnout, and perceived stress were assessed using pre- and post-intervention standardized measures.

Results: The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive function, evidenced by increased Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) scores (p < 0.01). Additionally, significant reductions were observed in emotional exhaustion and depersonalization scores, along with decreased perceived stress levels (p < 0.01). The control group showed marginal improvements in cognitive function but experienced a significant increase in depersonalization (p < 0.05). Both groups exhibited reduced perceived stress post-intervention.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that mindfulness practices effectively prevent cognitive impairment in trauma patients and enhance their cognitive and emotional well-being.