Feasibility and the effects of an online mindfulness-based health promotion program on college students’ sleep, circadian rhythms, and well-being: protocol for a randomized trial [CIRCAMIND study]

Abstract

Introduction: College students are exposed to a stressful routine, circadian misalignment, sleep irregularity and restriction, that is harmful to their health. Mindfulness training promotes well-being, reduces stress, and can improve sleep quality. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of the Mindfulness-Based Health Promotion (MBHP) program on sleep, circadian rhythms, stress, and mental health in college students. Data about the usability of the online format are still rare in the literature, therefore, we also intend to verify the usability of this format. Methods: A randomized controlled trial with four-time points will compare the MBHP program with a sleep psychoeducation control. Recruitment will be done from a database derived from a cross-sectional study pre viously conducted. Students enrolled in at least one undergraduate course at two Brazilian universities (one public, another private) with poor subjective sleep quality will be randomized and allocated in the ratio 1:1. Primary outcomes will be sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Sleep Hygiene Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale) and circadian rhythms (Munich Chronotype Questionnaire, actigraphy, 6-sulfatoxymelatonin and 24 h cortisol-profile). Secondary outcomes will be subjective well-being and stress. An additional weekly assessment will be done about the usability of the online mindfulness-based program (ease of use, compatibility, engage ment, therapeutic pathway). Conclusions: This is the first study to evaluate the effects of mindfulness on the circadian rhythms and sleep at four-time points. The efficacy of the program confirmation could influence and be considered for an academic policy aimed at promoting health in college students. The results about its usability will also help to highlight the best format for its application.