This study aimed to test the effectiveness
of an online positive psychology intervention among Greek healthcare
professionals with depression, anxiety and/or stress symptoms and increased
levels of burnout. The sample was consisted of 38 participants with mild,
severe, or extremely severe symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, and
moderate or high levels of burnout, who were randomly assigned either to the
intervention (N = 19) or the active control group (N = 19). Participants in the
intervention group were introduced weekly to three positive psychology
activities, whilst participants in the control group were given three placebo
activities. All participants completed self-report questionnaires (Depression,
Anxiety and Stress Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory, Satisfaction with Life
Scale, Positive and Negative Affect Scale) at the beginning and at the end of
the three-week online intervention. The results indicated that the intervention
group experienced statistically significant decreases in depression, anxiety,
stress, and emotional exhaustion scores, as well as increases in satisfaction
with life, compared to the control group which reported no changes. These
findings suggest that such a positive psychology intervention could help
healthcare professionals to manage their difficulties more effectively. Other
clinical implications and recommendations for future research are also
considered.
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