THE IMPACT OF ANXIETY AND STRESS ON MINDFULNESS-BASED INTERVENTION AMONG HEALTH WORKERS IN UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL GWAGWALADA, FCT – ABUJA, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study evaluated the “impact of anxiety and stress on mindfulness based interventions (MBIs) among health workers in University teaching hospital Abuja Gwagwalada.” In a cross-sectional design, data from 261 participants were collected using Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-short form (FFMQ-SF) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Results confirmed that MBIs significantly reduce anxiety and stress, however, effectiveness hinges on specific mindfulness facets: Acting with awareness and Non-Reactivity were the primary drivers of improvement, while the Observing facet, without this skills, was linked to higher stress. Pre-existing was also identified as a barrier to engagement. This study concludes that for MBIs to be effective in this context, they must be tailored, emphasizing core protective facet and incorporating pre-intervention assessment. These findings provide an evidence based framework for clinical psychologists to implement culturally relevant mental health support for Nigerian healthcare professionals.