A Pilot Feasibility Trial of Mind–Body Tactical Training for Firefighters: Evaluation of a Yoga-Based Transdiagnostic Program

Abstract

Objectives

Firefighters are at heightened risk for chronic occupational stress and exposure to potentially traumatic events. Experiencing potentially traumatic events is a risk factor for various psychiatric symptoms among firefighters, notably posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. This study evaluated the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of yoga to reduce PTSD symptoms, negative affect, and trait anxiety in firefighters.

Methods

A total of 108 trauma-exposed career firefighters (99% male; M_age = 34.55, SD = 8.37) were enrolled in a single-arm 8-week yoga intervention, termed Mind–Body Tactical Training (MBTT). Feasibility was assessed in five domains. Self-report measures were used to evaluate the MBTT intervention’s effectiveness in reducing symptoms of PTSD, negative affect, and trait anxiety. The Intervention Appropriateness Measure was employed to assess acceptability. Attrition, attendance, and intervention costs were used to determine demand, implementation, and practicality, respectively.

Results

Total PTSD (p < 0.001, d = 0.426), negative affect (p = 0.029, d = 0.242), and trait anxiety (p < 0.001, d = 0.327) decreased from pre- to post-intervention. Improvements in trait anxiety were also observed from pre-intervention to follow-up (p = 0.032). The intervention was generally acceptable to participants, had a 6.48% attrition rate, and had an 80.73 ± 18.96% class attendance. The cost of instructors and equipment totaled US$6636.78, equating to a cost per participant per attended class of US$4.76.

Conclusions

The current study provides initial evidence for the feasibility and effectiveness of yoga as a transdiagnostic treatment for firefighters.

Preregistration

This study is not preregistered.