The benefits of interventions for work-related stress

Objectives. This quantitative metaanalysis sought to determine the effectiveness of occupational stress-reducing interventions and the populations for which such interventions are most beneficial. Methods. Forty-eight experimental studies (n=3736) were included in the analysis. Four intervention types were distinguished: cognitive-behavioral interventions, relaxation techniques, multimodal programs, and organization-focused interventions. Results. A small but significant overall effect was found. A moderate effect was found for cognitive-behavioral interventions and multimodal interventions, and a small effect was found for relaxation techniques. The effect size for organization-focused interventions was nonsignificant. Effects were most pronounced on the following outcome categories: complaints, psychologic resources and responses, and perceived quality of work life. Conclusions. Stress management interventions are effective. Cognitive-behavioral interventions are more effective than the other intervention types.