Conference presentation
Participant experiences of a coach-led habit change program in an adult mining cohort
ISQOLS 2023 Conference: Towards a People-First Economy: A World to Win, 21st (Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 21/08/2023–25/08/2023)
24/08/2023
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Abstract
Habit-based behaviour change interventions have shown feasibility and benefits across a range of health areas. However, there is limited qualitative evidence available about participant experience and perceived impact following such programs, particularly in higher health risk populations. As such, this study qualitatively explored the perspectives of a mining cohort partaking in an in-person coach-led habit change program. Participants were on-site mining employees based in rural Queensland, Australia, working within a diverse range of roles at the site. Individual interviews were conducted on site and analysed thematically, with questions related to participation in program, areas of focus, and perceived impacts, included in relation to work safety and adapting to COVID-19. While the overall program was originally intended to be 12 months, due to COVID-19 and resulting lay-offs, interviews were conducted at 9 months to maximise participation. Eighteen of 41 program participants (4 female, 14 male; aged 19-62 years) consented to an interview, with the primary reason for not participating related to redundancies and therefore being unavailable. All 18 interviewees reported perceived program usefulness, with key wellbeing focus areas related to physical health and emotional regulation. Many also highlighted the group approach offered a unique opportunity to learn from others and feel a bit more connected. Common themes that arose in interviews related to the transferability of the program information and tools to a diverse range of health and wellbeing areas, including safety at work and ability to better support others with their own wellbeing. Additionally, multiple participants felt an improvement in self-control and situational awareness were key benefits of program participation, highlighting personal changes extended beyond just physical health. This study demonstrates the feasibility and broad positive impacts of a habit-based behaviour change program, focusing on providing participants with knowledge and resources to develop or change, instead of a specific behaviour to change, even at a rural mining site during COVID-19. By supporting individuals to improve self-awareness and feel empowered to change, even when delivered in a group setting, there is potential to make diverse, lasting impacts on wellbeing.
Details
- Title
- Participant experiences of a coach-led habit change program in an adult mining cohort
- Creators
- Jena Buchan - Southern Cross University
- Contributors
- Gina Cleo (Contributor) - Bond UniversityBella Reynolds (Contributor) - Bella Reynolds Coaching
- Conference
- ISQOLS 2023 Conference: Towards a People-First Economy: A World to Win, 21st (Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 21/08/2023–25/08/2023)
- Identifiers
- 991013297455002368
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Health
- Resource Type
- Conference presentation