BOS Research

Wayfound values our close relationships with academic research partners to ensure that the interventions we provide are consistently evidence-informed and scientifically validated.

In August 2021, our first peer-reviewed study, “Evaluation of Before Operational Stress: A Program to Support Mental Health and Proactive Psychological Protection in Public Safety Personnel” (Frontiers in Psychology), reported significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, quality of life, perceived social support, and reductions in stigma among public safety personnel (PSP) who completed the program. Participants also described enhanced self-awareness, reduced avoidance, and improved relationships with family and colleagues, underscoring the unique value of BOS compared to other resilience initiatives.

Building on this foundation, in July 2024, “Evaluating the Before Operational Stress Program: Comparing In-Person and Virtual Delivery” (Frontiers in Psychology) demonstrated that BOS delivered virtually (Classroom) was just as effective as in-person (Intensive) delivery. Both formats led to reductions in anxiety and emotional regulation difficulties, confirming that BOS can be delivered flexibly without losing impact.

In 2025, findings from “Evaluating the Before Operational Stress On-Demand” (Psychiatry Research) further expanded the reach of BOS. The study confirmed that an asynchronous, self-paced version of the program yields outcomes consistent with in-person and virtual delivery, making BOS more accessible than ever to trauma-exposed professionals across diverse schedules and contexts.

Complementing these quantitative results, a 2025 qualitative study published in Stress and Health provided rich insights into participant experiences. Interviews revealed four core themes: BOS supported participants’ personal health journeys, created a ripple effect that improved their ability to help peers and family, highlighted the challenges of organizational pressures, and showed that context matters, with career stage and workplace culture shaping how participants benefited. Across these accounts, BOS was consistently described as helpful, practical, and empowering.

To date, the BOS program has reached over 74,000 trauma-exposed professionals across North America, including PSP, healthcare providers, and other frontline workers. Wayfound’s team of researchers and clinicians remain committed to integrating the latest evidence, continuously evaluating effectiveness, and ensuring that BOS provides meaningful, sustainable support for those who dedicate their lives to serving our communities.