As a practitioner, continually improving your skills and staying updated with the latest research is essential. One recent study that provides valuable insights is titled "My Health Too: Investigating the Feasibility and the Acceptability of an Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Program Developed for Healthcare Workers" (Bureau et al., 2021). This research explores the feasibility and acceptability of an internet-based CBT program specifically designed for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Healthcare workers have faced unprecedented stress levels during the pandemic, leading to a significant impact on their mental health. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the "My Health Too" program in reducing stress and promoting resilience among healthcare workers.
Key Findings
- Feasibility: The study found that the "My Health Too" program is highly feasible for healthcare workers. Participants reported that the website was easy to use, and the content was readily accessible and understandable.
- Acceptability: Participants found the program acceptable, with many appreciating the interactive and user-friendly design. They also reported that the resources were useful in inducing calm and helping them practice self-compassion.
- Impact: The program had a positive impact on participants' emotions and everyday life. Many reported feeling more relaxed and capable of managing stress after using the program.
Practical Applications
Based on these findings, practitioners can implement similar online CBT programs to support healthcare workers and other high-stress professionals. Here are some practical steps:
- Adopt Online Platforms: Use internet-based platforms to deliver CBT programs. Ensure the platform is user-friendly and accessible on various devices.
- Focus on Key Areas: Develop content that targets understanding stress, finding calm, staying focused, and improving sleep. Use a combination of psychoeducational videos and mindfulness exercises.
- Gather Feedback: Continuously collect feedback from participants to improve the program's content and delivery. Use surveys and interviews to understand their experiences and make necessary adjustments.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study shows promising results, further research is needed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of such programs. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in or conduct studies to gather more data and refine these interventions.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: My Health Too: Investigating the Feasibility and the Acceptability of an Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Program Developed for Healthcare Workers.
