Evaluating an online four-session loving-kindness and compassion meditation training on improving psychological well-being among healthcare professionals in Hong Kong: a pilot randomised controlled study
Cogent Psychology June 6, 2025 Dicken Cheong-Chun Chan, Lawrence Hoy Fu Luk, Lyon Long Lik You et al.
Healthcare professionals face high stress and burnout risk. This pilot study tested an online 4-week Loving-kindness and Compassion Meditation (LKCM) training for healthcare workers in Hong Kong. Eighty-two participants were randomly assigned to LKCM or a waitlist. Most (77.5%) attended at least three of four sessions, and over 90% rated the course satisfactory. Overall, no significant differences emerged between groups on psychological outcomes. However, among the 23 participants with moderate or higher baseline stress, LKCM showed immediate benefits: reduced emotional exhaustion, increased personal accomplishment, and greater social connectedness. Online LKCM appears feasible and acceptable, with potential benefits for stressed healthcare professionals.