Navigating workplace stress: a qualitative exploration of mental healthcare workers’ lived experiences with STAPP@Work, a mobile stress management intervention

Abstract Background Mental health workers (MHWs) face ongoing challenges, including heavy workloads, staff shortages, and pressure due to long patient waiting lists. These factors contribute to high levels of stress, affecting both their well-being and the quality of patient care. Digital interventions have shown promising results in supporting stress management among healthcare professionals. However, little is known about MHWs’ experiences with such interventions. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of MHWs regarding their use of STAPP@Work, a self-monitoring stress management app designed for the workplace. Methods A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with MHWs (n = 14) who used STAPP@Work for two weeks. Thematic analysis was conducted to explore patterns in participants’ experiences using the app in their daily work context, focusing on how they engaged with its functionalities, and how they perceived and responded to its use. Results While most participants found the app useful and easy to use, they also experienced barriers, including time constraints, unpredictable schedules, and limited integration into work routines. The app increased self-awareness and early stress recognition, which facilitated timely intervention. By prompting “self-check-ins”, it helped participants pause, evaluate their well-being, and notice stress throughout the day. This awareness led to actions such as reorganizing tasks, taking short breaks, and reframing thoughts, with some maintaining these behaviors and a heightened sense of self-awareness beyond the study period. Conclusions STAPP@Work shows potential as a preventive self-management tool in the workplace by promoting self-awareness, stress recognition, and early intervention. However, sustained engagement remained a challenge. Future research should explore long-term use facilitators, workplace integration, and its applicability for other working populations. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06991439, registered on 27 May 2025. Retrospectively registered.