Stress and anxiety in nursing students: Effects of a program based on relaxation techniques

Background: Clinical placements and the COVID-19 pandemic are experiences that cause stress and anxiety in nursing students. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of the ‘‘Learning to Relax’’ (Aprender a relaxar) program in reducing stress and anxiety in nursing students. Methodology: A pre-experimental, longitudinal study was conducted with seven students who sought an anxiety consultation. The ‘‘Learning to Relax’’ program was designed based on diaphragmatic breathing and progressive muscle relaxation techniques and implemented in eight sessions during five weeks. The evaluation was conducted at baseline, endline, and follow-up using the Perceived Stress Scale and the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale. Results: Stress levels were lower between baseline and endline (p = 0.069) and significantly lower between baseline and follow-up (p = 0.033). There was a significant decrease in anxiety between baseline and endline (p = 0.033) and between baseline and follow-up (p = 0.006). Conclusion: Program had a positive impact on managing stress, anxiety, and associated symptoms. It is therefore a therapeutic resource for interventions with nursing students.