Open Access

ARTICLE

Barriers and Facilitators to Implementation of Mindfulness in Motion for Firefighters and Emergency Medical Service Providers

Beth Steinberg^1,*, Yulia Mulugeta¹, Catherine Quatman-Yates², Maeghan Williams², Anvitha Gogineni¹, Maryanna Klatt¹

1 The Ohio State University Department of Family and Community Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
2 The Ohio State University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA

* Corresponding Author: Beth Steinberg. Email:

International Journal of Mental Health Promotion 2025, 27(9), 1237-1264. https://doi.org/10.32604/ijmhp.2025.067232

Received 28 April 2025; Accepted 12 August 2025; Issue published 30 September 2025

Abstract

Background: Community-based first responders face high levels of workplace stressors that can profoundly impact their physical and mental health. Mindfulness-based interventions have shown promise in decreasing stress and increasing psychological resilience; however, implementation is difficult due to unpredictability of the job, department culture, and generational preferences. The objective of this qualitative study was to identify and enhance understanding of the specific needs and potential barriers and facilitators for the implementation of mindfulness-based programming for community-based first responders. Methods: A phenomenological qualitative study design was used to gain insights into the lived experiences of first responders and elicit perceptions regarding barriers and facilitators for engaging in mindfulness activities. During virtual semi-structured interviews, eleven career firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) providers offered feedback relative to worksite mindfulness practices, and the use of a stress reduction smartphone application. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used to guide the analysis relative to barriers and facilitators of implementation success and sustainability. Results: First responders expressed openness to mindfulness-based interventions and a smartphone app that would provide stress reduction content, however, they were adamant that programming needed to be accessible and easily integrated into their workday. They also reinforced that organizational culture and leadership support for their health and well-being were overarching factors essential for implementation success. Conclusions: First responders were supportive of evidence-based mindfulness practices, optimally developed and/or facilitated by someone with intimate knowledge of their unique work environments and challenges. Organizational culture and leadership support were essential for implementation success and sustainability.

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Keywords

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