Effects of a Workplace Wellness Program in the Public Health Workforce: Small-Scale Study at a Local Health Department
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Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has a profound impact on the physical and mental well being of the public health workforce. Past research on worksite health promotion programs (WHPPs) shows improved employee health outcomes and increased workplace productivity. Yet, there is little research on WHPPs at local health departments around the United States. Objective: Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a short term WHPP at the Jefferson County Health Department located in Eastern Missouri. Methods: During the 4-week experiment, employees (N=34) received emails with self-guided mediation videos from the Headspace and Calm YouTube channels and nutrition education infographics with recipe ideas. Self-reported stress levels and fruit and vegetable consumption were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) with 10-items and 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Questionnaire over fruit and vegetable intake at baseline and after the 4-week experiment. Employees also completed weekly progress report surveys to track participation. The intervention group (N=14) completed all challenge surveys, and the control group (N=20) completed the pre-challenge survey. Results: T-tests for the intervention group found statistical significance for PSS items 2 and 10 (unable to control, could not overcome) between the pre-challenge and post-challenge surveys. T-tests for the intervention and control groups found statistical significance for demographic item 1 (years) and the fruit and vegetable consumption items 2 and 5 (fresh/frozen/canned fruit, orange vegetables). Conclusion: Public health urgently needs to invest in the health of its workforce. This study highlights the effectiveness of mediation videos at reducing stress within a workplace. Future research should evaluate the long-term effects and motivation factors of WHPPs for public health employees.