THE EFFECT OF A RESİLİENCE TRAİNİNG TO PROMOTE THE MENTAL WELL-BEİNG OF FRONTLİNE WORKERS: A BRİEF REPORT OF A SEMİ-EXPERİMENTAL STUDY ON THE COMMUNİTY RESİLİENCE MODEL

Abstract

Problem of the Study: Frontline workers (FLW) are at risk for secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and related psychiatric sequelae. These; depression, anxiety, suicidality, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep and substance use disorders. Frontline workers (FLW) need self-care programs to support their mental health. The research problem of the study is handled in this context. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted to evaluate the effect of a simple training on mental well-being and emotional regulation, using an appropriate example of the Community Resilience Model (CRM), FLW (Front line workers). Baseline scores on mental health and stress measures are compared with follow-up scores at three time points. Outcomes, psychological well-being (World Health Organization-5 Well-Being Index); endurance (Connor-Davidson Endurance Scale-10); traumatic stress (Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale); physical symptoms (Somatic Symptom Scale-8) were evaluated within the scope of concepts. Results: 73 (70.2%) of the 104 participants enrolled and participated in the CRM training completed at least 1 post-test. Well-being scores increased at 1 year with a small-medium effect size. (Cohen d=0.32). Resilience scores increased by 1 year with a small-medium effect size (Cohen d=0.36). Although secondary traumatic stress scores showed the greatest effect in 1 week (Cohen d=0.49), reductions were found in the scores obtained. Somatic symptoms decreased at each posttest and the greatest change occurred from baseline to 1 week (Cohen d=0.39). Participants reported that awareness of their body sensations helped them when they were very bored as a way to calm themselves. Conclusions: After three hours of Community Resilience Model (CRM) training, participants report improved mental health and reduced secondary traumatic stress and somatic symptoms. This simple body awareness intervention can be cited as a good resource during the COVID-19 pandemic.