Assessing Presenteeism and Interest in "One Body” Stress Reduction Fitness Program in a Healthcare Setting

A strong correlation between stress and impairments of the human body, both mental and physical has been reported (Barrington, et al., 2012).  Further, concept of Presenteeism may be a manifestation of stress. Brown, et al. (2011), defined presenteeism as "being on the job but performing below par" (decreased productivity) due to poor mental and physical health symptoms. A study by Callen, et al. (2013), found that unresolved psychological and physical stress can result in an increased prevalence of presenteeism - employees are physically present, but due to emotional and/or physical problems, they are distracted and work productivity is decreased.  Brown, et al.(2011), Merrill, et al. (2012), and Chen, et al. (2015), stated physical fitness programs alone serve as effective interventions for alleviating symptoms of presenteeism.  In addition, the Mayo Clinic (2015), has indicated that mental or physical fitness programs are effective interventions for managing and controlling human stress (http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469 and http://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/use-mindfulness-to-improve-well-being/).

Traditional fitness programs focus on mental (i.e. mindfulness, relaxation) or physical (i.e. dance/aerobics) exercise. There is limited research regarding the impact of a combined mental and physical fitness program (Chu, et al., 2014).  The purpose of this research project is to assess for evidence of presenteeism and to evaluate interest for a stress reduction mental and physical fitness program that is based on a wholistic (whole person) mind-body relationship called “One Body.”

The research survey results will be used answer two specific research questions: (1) does presenteeism exist in this population, (2) does the study population exhibit an interest in a stress reduction fitness program such as "One Body."

This quantitative and exploratory, descriptive research study will utilize a web-based survey hosted by Survey Monkey.  Following IRB approvals the survey will be distributed for two weeks in October-November 2015. Data analysis and construction of manuscript will occur December 2015- March 2016.

Research results are pending but it is thought that the "One Body" fitness program may help a health care agency staff manage stress. Offering employees a mechanism to manage their stress could alleviate the symptoms that underlie presenteeism, improve the quality of an individual’s experience within the working environment, and may lead to increased employee productivity.