A cluster randomized controlled trial of a mind-body tactical resilience training in first responders

INTERVENTION: The Mind‐Body Tactical Resilience Training Program is developed by YogaShield® Yoga For First Responders® (YFFR). YogaShield® YFFR is a non‐profit organization based in Colorado, United States that delivers this tactical resilience training to first responders using mind‐body techniques that are job‐specific and culturally informed. Members of the organisation consist of active and former first responders, military, as well as yoga instructors. The aim of this training is to equip first responders with a proactive and tactical skillset for processing stress, building resilience, and enhancing performance using a methodology that is job specific and culturally informed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the most well‐established tactical mind‐body resilience training program for first responders in the world. Given the scale and reach that the organisation has already achieved with local networks as well as throughout the U.S. and internationally, collaborating with YFFR and their first responder networks in the U.S. is an ideal location to undertake analysis on the effectiveness of this type of training. The Mind‐Body Tactical Resilience Training consists of a free‐of‐charge program comprising sixteen 60‐minute classes delivered between approximate 8 ‐ 16 weeks (depending on shift schedules) by trained YFFR instructors, and within the department’s training facility. The aim of this training is to equip first responders with a proactive and tactical skillset for processing stress, building resilience, and enhancing performance using a methodology that is job specific and culturally informed. The training utilizes a variety of specialized techniques including tactical breathwork, physical drills, mindfulness and self‐regulation strategies. Classes will be sche CONDITION: Mental Health ‐ Other mental health disorders Post‐traumatic stress ;Psychological distress;Somatic symptoms; ; Post‐traumatic stress ; Psychological distress ; Somatic symptoms PRIMARY OUTCOME: Post‐traumatic stress symptoms as measured by PTSD‐8[a) Pre‐intervention; b) Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program); c) 3 month follow up] Psychological distress as measured by the K‐6[a)Pre‐intervention; b)Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program); c) 3 month follow‐up] SECONDARY OUTCOME: Emotion regulation (ERQ scale)[a)Pre‐intervention ; b)Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program) ; c) 3 month follow‐up] Resilience (Brief Resilience Scale)[a)Pre‐intervention ; b)Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program) ; c) 3 month follow‐up] Short Form Perceived Stress Scale (PSS‐4)[a)Pre‐intervention ; b)Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program) ; c) 3 month follow‐up] Somatic symptoms (Abbreviated PHQ‐15 scale)[a)Pre‐intervention ; b)Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program) ; c) 3 month follow‐up] Stress mindset (SMM questionnaire)[a)Pre‐intervention ; b)Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program) ; c) 3 month follow‐up] Work performance (Health and Work Performance Questionnaire (HPQ)[a)Pre‐intervention ; b)Post‐intervention (within 1 week of completion of the training program) ; c) 3 month follow‐up] INCLUSION CRITERIA: • 18 years of age or older • Current active‐duty and operational frontline first responders (including law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers) currently residing in the United States • English speaking