Feasibility of online group stress management training compared to web-based individual training for employees-a randomized pilot study.

Background: In recent decades, digital stress management training, typically targeted at individuals, has gained increasing attention in health promotion. While these interventions show on average moderate to high effects on stress and other mental health outcomes, their use and acceptance in practice are often low. In contrast, group training may have advantages over these shortcomings. However, despite its widespread use in traditional non-digital health promotion, there is little evidence for digital training delivered in groups. Objective: This study's aim was to explore the feasibility of live, online stress management training delivered in a group format and compare it to Internet-based training targeting individuals. Methods: Employees ( Results: Participants in group training [Cohen's d = 0.9 (95% confidence interval: 0.4 to 1.5)] and individual training [1.3 (0.6 to 2.0)] both experienced statistically-significant reductions in stress, with no significant difference between the two training formats [0.25 (-0.32 to 0.83); Conclusion: This pilot study showed promising effects for the acceptance and health-related effectiveness of stress management training delivered in a group setting via videoconference. The findings highlight the value of personal contact with a coach and peers for positive user experiences during digital stress management interventions. Clinical trial registration: https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00024965, DRKS00024965.