A pilot feasibility study of a peer-led mindfulness program for medical students

Marlon Danilewitz; Jacques Bradwejn; Diana Koszycki

doi:10.36834/cmej.36643

A pilot feasibility study of a peer-led mindfulness program for medical students

Authors

Marlon Danilewitz University of British Columbia
Jacques Bradwejn University of Ottawa
Diana Koszycki University of Ottawa and Institute de recherche de l'hopital Montfort

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36834/cmej.36643

Keywords:

medical student wellness, stress, mindfulness meditation,

Abstract

Background: Mindfulness meditation has gained momentum in medical circles for bolstering wellbeing and other facets of professionalism. This study evaluated the feasibility and benefits of a peer-led mindfulness meditation program (MMP) on medical student wellness and professionalism.

Method: Pre-clerkship students were recruited and randomized to the 8-week MMP or wait-list. Feasibility outcomes included ease of recruitment, program attendance and homework compliance. Other outcomes included self-reported psychological distress, empathy, self-compassion, mindfulness, altruism and program satisfaction.

Results: The MMP decreased levels of stress and enhanced mindfulness, self-compassion and altruism from baseline to post-study. Changes were not significant for the wait-list condition. Although satisfaction with the MMP was high compliance was suboptimal.

Conclusions: A peer-led MMP is feasible and may be a promising approach to enhance medical student wellbeing. Further research is needed to explore strategies to improve program compliance in this student population.

Author Biographies

Marlon Danilewitz, University of British Columbia

Department of Psychiatry, First year resident

Jacques Bradwejn, University of Ottawa

Dean and Full Professor, Faculty of Medicine

Diana Koszycki, University of Ottawa and Institute de recherche de l'hopital Montfort

Full Professor

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Published

2016-04-02

How to Cite

Danilewitz M, Bradwejn J, Koszycki D. A pilot feasibility study of a peer-led mindfulness program for medical students. Can. Med. Ed. J [Internet]. 2016 Apr. 2 [cited 2024 Dec. 29];7(1):e31-e37. Available from: https://journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/index.php/cmej/article/view/36643

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Issue

Vol. 7 No. 1 (2016)

Section

Original Research

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