Thrive and Flourish: A Holistic Approach to Nurturing Wellness and Resilience in Nursing Students

Nursing students report high rates of perceived stress and burnout. The compounded effect of adverse childhood experiences and the lingering trauma of the corona-virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic heightens the risk of mental health issues against the backdrop of a global nursing profession already grappling with shortages, burnout, and inadequate staffing.

An evidence-based educational innovation was designed for first-year nursing students to reduce stress and burnout while enhancing academic success and resilience. Offered the week before the first semester, the curriculum included evidence-based mindfulness practices, yoga, physical activity, nutrition education, and stress management. Students explored research processes, built connections, and acquired strategies for academic success. FitBits were provided for data analysis and continual data collection.

Participants found the immersive bridge week beneficial for community building, stress reduction, mindfulness, physical well-being, and academic preparation valuable and suggested areas of improvement.

Elevated stress levels in nursing students can affect learning and retention. The curriculum offered a holistic approach to reducing stress and burnout.