CalmER Study

Summer Mengelkoch, PhD

Organization

UCLA Stress Lab, USA.

Team

Summer Mengelkoch, PhD (PI and Postdoctoral Researcher)

Katie Firestone (Project Coordinator)

Kimya Afshar (Research Assistant)

Project Description & Objectives

This randomized controlled trial investigates the effectiveness of Emotional Resolution (EmRes), an emotional regulation technique, in reducing anxiety and burnout among healthcare workers. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the EmRes intervention or an active control group engaged in mindfulness-based gratitude, with both groups completing six one-hour Zoom sessions over nine weeks. The study aims to evaluate whether EmRes more effectively reduces anxiety, burnout, and perceived stress compared to the control condition, while also assessing its impact on emotion regulation and overall well-being.

Data Collection Process

Data were collected using a combination of self-report surveys and physiological data from Garmin smartwatches. Participants completed standardized questionnaires assessing anxiety, burnout, perceived stress, and well-being. Throughout the study period, participants also wore Garmin devices to passively track physiological indicators such as heart rate, sleep patterns, and activity levels, allowing for an integrated assessment of both psychological and physiological outcomes.

Each participant wore the watch for 18 weeks.

Fitrockr Utilization

We used the Fitrockr platform to collect Garmin data and give participants limited access to their Garmin data, allowing them to view select information such as steps and general activity levels. However, data that could influence their perception of stress was intentionally withheld to minimize potential bias in how participants interpreted or reported their stress experiences throughout the study.

Wearable Used

Vivoactive 5

Number of Participants

150

Duration

12 months

Metrics Collected

Daily Activity Data

Steps

Heart Rate

BBI

HRV