Introduction. Academic stress is a significant issue in higher education and it can be a risk factor for future academic and mental health problems. Programs aimed at reducing academic stress have often focused on psychological interventions (mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, etc.), while neglecting interventions centered on promoting study and learning skills. High academic self-efficacy is a protective factor against many academic challenges. The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of an intervention based on teaching study skills in reducing academic stress and increasing academic self-efficacy among first-year Nursing students at a Spanish university. Method. A controlled study with pretest and posttest measurements was designed and conducted with a group of 206 first-year Nursing students who completed the University Academic Stress Questionnaire and the General Academic Self-Efficacy Questionnaire. The intervention was divided into three components (Time Management, Study Techniques/Learning Strategies, Exam Preparation), delivered in both group and individual formats. To assess its effectiveness, a mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used. Results. The results demonstrated significant improvements in the experimental group, both in academic self-efficacy and in the reduction of stress related to academic overload, studying tasks and exam performance. These effects were sustained throughout their first-year studies. No such improvements were observed in the control group. Discussion or Conclusion. The results and their implications are discussed for the implementation of study skills-based programs in university settings, as well as suggestions for future interventions targeting the reduction of academic stress and the enhancement of academic self-efficacy in university students.
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