Feasibility and Acceptability of a Virtually Delivered Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Post-9/11 Veterans

Abstract

This pilot study examined the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual mindfulness-based intervention known as RECLAIM (Reconnecting to Civilian Life using Activities that Improve Mindfulness). RECLAIM is a multi-component intervention that is aimed at post-9/11 veterans to strengthen skillsets (e.g., goal setting, energy management) and protective factors (e.g., sense of purpose, social connection) that can mitigate challenges associated with the reintegration process. Feasibility and acceptability outcomes were study enrollment and intervention completion rates. Participants also completed outcome assessments at baseline and postintervention to facilitate a preliminary exploration of the impact of RECLAM participation on several outcomes of interest (e.g., psychosocial functioning, facets of mindfulness). We also conducted qualitative interviews with participants to elicit additional information about feasibility, acceptability, and the outcomes of interest. Eighteen of the thirty-five (51%) eligible participants contacted by phone enrolled. Sixty-one percent (n = 11) completed the intervention (≥ 5 of the 8 sessions). Postintervention assessments indicated significant changes in psychosocial functioning and depressive symptoms and nonsignificant changes in physical health and most aspects of mindfulness (observing, describing, awareness, non-judging). Qualitative findings further supported acceptability of the intervention; participants indicated they enjoyed the sessions and reported several benefits from participating in RECLAIM, such as acquiring mindfulness skills and connecting with and learning from other veterans. Participants indicated they would recommend RECLAIM to anyone, not just veterans. These findings suggest that the intervention is an acceptable and feasible virtual intervention among post-9/11 veterans.

Keywords:

• Reintegration
• health promotion
• RECLAIM
• connection
• OEF
• OIF
• meditation
• online

Acknowledgements

The authors gratefully acknowledge the support of Christina Bobiles, Miranda Connors, and Stephanie McCalley who provided recruitment and regulatory support for this study.

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Ethics approval

Ethical approval was granted by the Indiana University Purdue University Institutional Review Board (IRB 2008591926).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by a Small Award Initiative for Impact (SWIFT) from VA Health Services Research and Development. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.