Effectiveness of Mindfulness Breathing Practices on Work-related Stress, Depression and Anxiety among ASHAs in Rural Jodhpur – A Quasi-experimental study

Psychological well-being of frontline healthcare workers is a significant global public health concern. Healthcare workers experience higher stress,which is a strong determining factor for poor work performance and quality of medical care. ‘Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs)’, who deliver primary care, face high levels of stress due to work demands and low compensation.

Mindful breathing is a basic meditation practice to focus one’s attention on breathing to its natural rhythm and flow and the way it feels on each inhale and exhale. Focusing on the breath is particularly helpful as it serves as an anchor – at times of stress or negative emotions.

Through this study we plan to assess the effect of Mindfulness Breathing practices on Work-related Stress, Depression and Anxiety among ASHA workers of Rural Jodhpur.

Research Question: Does mindfulness breathing practices help in reducing work-related stress, depression and anxiety among ASHAs?

Objective: To assess the effect of mindfulness breathing practices on work-related stress, depression and anxiety among ASHAs of Rural Jodhpur.

PICOT

Population: ASHA workers in selected rural blocks of Jodhpur

Intervention group: 150 ASHAs

Comparison: Single group Pre and Post intervention

Outcome - Reduction in work-related stress, Depression and Anxiety

Time: Duration of study including baseline evaluation, intervention and final assessment will    be 18 months