Mapping the evidence on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions as a stress recovery strategy in the workplace: a scoping review

This research adopts the stressor-detachment model of recovery from work and explores existing applications of mindfulness interventions to facilitate recovery as measured by psychological detachment. Given the attentional and cognitive nature of mindfulness, its connection to the core dimension of recovery—psychological detachment—can significantly enhance the understanding of the effectiveness of the Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs). Articles were retrieved from electronic databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Cochrane, covering publications up to October 2024. The PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines were followed. A total of 22 studies were included in the analysis. The data from these articles were qualitatively summarized. The results highlight a diverse array of mindfulness-based interventions designed to facilitate recovery from workplace stress. These interventions vary in terms of their characteristics, methodologies, and study samples. The existing evidence indicates potential benefits associated with these interventions. Although mindfulness practice does not show significant advantages over other activities or practices, reported evidence supports its positive impact on recovery experiences—measured via psychological detachment—and, indirectly, on outcome variables related to health and well-being, as outlined by the stressor-detachment model.