A Bibliometric Assessment of Mindfulness Practices and Employee Assistance Programs on Employee Mental Well-Being

Abstract

Purpose
This study aims to systematically map and evaluate the scholarly literature on mindfulness practices and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in relation to employee mental well-being. Owing to the fragmented and multidisciplinary nature of prior research, the study seeks to identify publication trends, dominant research themes, key contributors, and emerging research gaps.

Design/Methodology
A bibliometric research design was employed using data retrieved from the Scopus database. An initial set of 304 records published between 2021 and 2025 was identified, of which 68 open-access English-language research articles met the inclusion criteria. Bibliometric mapping and network visualization were conducted using VOSviewer to analyze publication growth, citation patterns, keyword co-occurrence, co-authorship networks, and the geographical distribution of research output.

Findings
The findings indicate a consistent increase in research output on mindfulness practices and EAPs, with earlier publications demonstrating higher citation impact. The literature is predominantly concentrated in psychology, medicine, and social sciences. Keyword analysis reveals key thematic clusters related to mindfulness, resilience, employee mental health, and pandemic-driven occupational stress. Strong international research contributions are evident, particularly from the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Practical Implications

The study offers valuable insights for organizational leaders, HR professionals, and policymakers by supporting the integration of mindfulness practices and structured EAPs into workplace well-being strategies to mitigate stress, burnout, and absenteeism.

Originality/Value
This study provides a novel bibliometric synthesis that integrates fragmented literature and advances interdisciplinary understanding of employee mental well-being.