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


METHODS
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.
University of British Columbia, Department of Psychiatry, Vancouver, BC.
Marlon
M
Danilewitz
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, ON; Institut de recherche de l'hôpital Montfort, Ottawa, ON.
Jacques
J
Bradwejn
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, ON; Institut de recherche de l'hôpital Montfort, Ottawa, ON; University of Ottawa, Faculty of Education, Ottawa, ON.
Diana
D
Koszycki