As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the degree of burnout and consequential negative psychological effects experienced by healthcare providers has been substantially exacerbated. Heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback has long been used to assist with a wide variety of stress-related concerns. Building on evidence that HRV biofeedback has the potential to improve wellbeing, the purpose of this study is to pilot test and determine the feasibility of implementing a digital HRV biofeedback tool to improve disordered eating, mindful self-care (i.e., self-compassion, body appreciation, etc.), and perceived stress in healthcare providers. In addition to assessing acceptability and feasibility of the HRV biofeedback tool, the investigators will aim to establish 'proof-of-concept' for a conceptual model consisting of potential psychological constructs underlying the mechanisms of change for the intervention-namely mind-body awareness (i.e., interoception) and resilience. Our primary recruitment pool will include healthcare providers who reported elevated eating distress as a participant in an ongoing observational study of the health effects of theCOVID-19 pandemic on essential workers (CHAMPS).
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Pre-enrollment:
Timeframe: Consent interview/Baseline assessment - Week 0
Full enrollment:
Timeframe: Participant receipt of study device and initial study visit - Week 2
Engagement/adherence to protocol
Timeframe: Begins as soon the participant begins biofeedback training through the end of HRV biofeedback intervention - 8 weeks total
Attrition/Drop out
Timeframe: Training visit through final check-in and post-intervention assessments (approximately 10 weeks of study involvement
Usability
Timeframe: post-intervention assessment (approximately 8 weeks after HRV biofeedback training visit)