Dispositional Mindfulness and Perceived Stress Among Paramedic Trainees: Results of a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background

Paramedic trainees are exposed to time-critical decision-making, emotionally challenging incidents, and demanding organisational conditions during their education. Mindfulness has been discussed as a potential resource for stress management, yet evidence in German paramedic training remains scarce. This study examined the association between dispositional mindfulness and perceived stress among paramedic trainees.

Methods

A quantitative cross-sectional online survey was conducted among paramedic trainees in Baden-Württemberg, Germany (n = 100). Perceived stress was measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), while dispositional mindfulness was assessed using the German version of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ-D). Descriptive statistics, Spearman correlations, regression analyses, and group comparisons were performed.

Results

Dispositional mindfulness showed a significant negative association with perceived stress (r_s = –0.56,  p < .001). Mindfulness explained 31% of the variance in stress scores. The facets non-judging and acting with awareness demonstrated stronger negative associations with stress than observing, which showed no significant relationship. No significant differences were found regarding gender, year of training, or prior emergency medical service experience.

Discussion

The findings are consistent with international evidence suggesting that higher levels of mindfulness are associated with lower perceived stress. Acceptance-based and awareness-related facets appear particularly relevant for coping with occupational stressors.

Conclusions

Mindfulness may represent an important protective factor within paramedic education. Future longitudinal and intervention studies should investigate whether mindfulness-based programmes can effectively reduce stress and improve psychological well-being in this population.