A simple and accessible tool to improve student mental health wellbeing

Abstract

BackgroundStress and depression negatively impact nursing students. The rate of depression in undergraduate nursing students is approximately 20%-34%. Mindfulness has been shown to improve mental health in a variety of populations. MethodsThis quasi experimental pretest-posttest study included twenty six prelicensure nursing students from a public university in the Pacific Northwest, US. Students used a mindfulness application (app), Smiling Mind, for 6 weeks. Stress (PSS), depression (BDI) and self compassion (SCS) were measured. ResultsThere was a statistically significant reduction in stress, depression, and an increase in total self compassion. ConclusionsIt is well documented that nursing students experience stress and depression and the need for simple and cost-effective interventions to support students’ mental health. Using a mindfulness mobile app is promising to improve the mental health of students. Our study showed that minimal app usage resulted in significant positive effects. It is a simple, easy, and cost effective intervention that students can use for mental health wellbeing.