Job stress reduction therapies.

BACKGROUND

Job stress among healthcare workers has received more attention in recent years, perhaps because these professionals are prime candidates for high stress levels.

METHOD

The immediate effects of brief massage therapy, music relaxation with visual imagery, muscle relaxation, and social support group sessions were assessed in 100 hospital employees at a major public hospital.

DESIGN

The effects of the therapies were assessed using a within-subjects pre-post test design and by comparisons across groups.

RESULTS

Groups reported decreases in anxiety, depression, fatigue, and confusion, as well as increased vigor following the sessions.

CONCLUSION

That the groups did not differ on these variables suggests that these particular therapies, when applied for short periods of time, are equally effective for reducing stress among hospital employees.