Resilient Responders: The Impact of a Mindfulness-Based Resilience Training on the Mental, Physical, and Social Health of Law Enforcement Officers

Abstract Objectives Law enforcement officers (LEOs) experience chronic occupational stressors linked to psychological and physiological challenges, with limited research on social health impacts. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects of the pilot Mindfulness-Based Resilience Training for First Responders (MBRT-FR) on LEOs’ psychological, physiological, and social health outcomes.

Methods: Data were collected from LEOs (n = 22) who completed an 8-week program using validated measures. Paired-sample t-tests examined changes from baseline to post-intervention across domains. A series of path analyses using change scores were estimated to examine whether changes in mindfulness were associated with domain outcomes.

Results: Comparing pre- and post-tests, significant improvements in officers’ interpersonal functioning were found ( t (18) = 1.88, p = .038), supporting the program’s novel addition of social/relational skills training. Significant improvements were observed in emotion regulation ( t (18) = 1.86, p = .040) and mental distress ( t (18) = 1.99, p = .031). Path analyses using change scores indicated that increases in mindfulness were associated with improvements in interpersonal functioning (β = −0.60, p < .01), emotional intelligence (β = 0.57, p < .05), PTSD symptoms (β = −0.72, p < .001), and burnout (β = −0.56, p < .05).

Conclusions: Findings support MBRT-FR as a promising intervention for improving LEOs’ well-being. In a field where the suppression of emotions and stigma around seeking support are deeply embedded, providing tailored resources is essential to foster meaningful, lasting improvements in the mental, physical, and social/interpersonal health of law enforcement personnel.