Customized interventions improved employees' experience of recovery during the workday

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of research regarding factors promoting recovery during the workday and effective interventions. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate how different intervention activities may impact employees' experiences of recovery at the workplace. METHODS: Customized intervention activities based on qualitative results and a participatory approach were integrated among the employees at six primary health care centres (PHCCs; n= 166) during one year. Recovery and workplace factors were measured with a questionnaire at the start and end of intervention, and also in a control group (15 PHCCs; n= 328). Group differences were tested (Chi-2) and explanatory factors compared by logistic regression models. RESULTS: The proportion of employees reporting workday recovery increased in the intervention group (19.9% to 29.1%; p = 0.01), whereas the control group showed no significant change. Recovery was explained by self-reflection and reflection with co-workers. After intervention, having influence on work situation, energy-building experience, and opportunity for laughter also contributed significantly to recovery. CONCLUSIONS: The results contribute to work recovery research by confirming that a customized intervention may have an impact on employees' recovery experiences. The study showed that considering the factors of reflection, influence, and companionship can positively impact workplace recovery.