"Does the Inner Garden Program Enhance Self-Compassion in Youth Workers? An Evaluation of an EU-Funded Training Course"

Background: Self-compassion plays a crucial role in mental well-being and professional effectiveness, particularly for youth workers facing demanding situations. This study evaluated the impact of the Inner Garden program, an EU-funded immersive training course incorporating nature-based practices and self-compassion techniques, on self-compassion levels in youth workers.Methods: A pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design was employed with a sample of 26 youth workers. The program consisted of an 8-day immersive training focused on self-compassion, mindfulness, and nature connection. Self-compassion was measured using the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) at baseline, immediately after the program (post-test), and two months later (follow-up).Results: Statistically significant increases in self-compassion scores were observed both immediately after the program (8.31%) and at follow-up (21.73%) compared to baseline. Additionally, the program led to improvements in self-kindness, over-identification, self-judgment, common humanity, isolation, and mindfulness, with some effects emerging later at follow-up.Conclusions: These findings suggest that the Inner Garden program is a promising intervention for enhancing self-compassion and promoting well-being among youth workers, with positive effects persisting even two months after program completion. Further research with larger samples and longer follow-up periods is needed to confirm these initial findings and explore potential mechanisms of change.