Effectiveness of an Online Self-learning Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program on Occupational Stress Among Indian Adults: A Pre-Post Single Group Study

Abstract

This study examined the impact of an 8-week online self-learning Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program on occupational stress among Indian adults employed in the private sector. The study employed a pre-post single group design, with a total sample of 60 participants (30 males, 30 females) from different income brackets. Occupational stress was measured using the Work Stress Questionnaire (WSQ) before and after the intervention. Following the MBSR intervention, there was a statistically meaningful decrease in total occupational stress among employees (t(59) = 10.28, p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.64). While no significant gender differences were observed in stress reduction, employees in the lowest income bracket (up to 7 LPA) showed a significantly greater reduction than the middle and higher income groups. The results of this study suggest that online, self-paced MBSR programs can effectively reduce occupational stress, supporting the implementation of such interventions in workplace settings to enhance employee well-being.