Neuropattern, a Translational Tool to Reduce Stress at Work – a Pilot Study

Abstract

Changing working conditions demand adaptation, resulting in higher stress levels in employees. In consequence, decreased productivity, increasing rates of sick leave, and cases of early retirement result in higher direct, indirect, and intangible costs. The aim of the study was to test the usefulness of a novel translational tool, Neuropattern, for early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment of stress-related disorders. The trial was designed as a pilot study with a wait list control group. In this study, 70 employees of the Forestry Department Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany were block-randomized and either underwent Neuropattern immediately, or after a waiting period of three months. After the diagnostic assessment, they received an explanatory disease model and individualized online counseling while their physicians were provided with diagnostic results and treatment recommendations. In order to assess possible beneficial effects of Neuropattern, questionnaires regarding health (SF-12), stress perception (PSS), emotional exhaustion (MBI), work stress (ERI) and work ability (WAI) as well as questions on health behavior were included at several time points. The application of Neuropattern resulted in significantly higher increase in measures of mental health and sporting activity and a significantly stronger decrease in perceived stress, emotional exhaustion and overcommitment, as compared to the control group. No such differences were found with regard to subjects’ physical health, current work ability, reward, effort-reward ratio and practice of relaxation methods. In addition, we unexpectedly found that subjects of the experimental group became significantly more pessimistic regarding their future work ability and showed higher rates of sick leave than control subjects did. These changes remained consistent during 3 and 6 months of follow-up. The present study encouraged the application of Neuropattern to early intervention in non-clinical populations. However, further research is required to determine the best operating conditions.