Factors Contributing to Mental Distress Among Nursing Students

Mental distress among nursing students has emerged as a serious concern in healthcare education, adversely affecting their academic performance, personal well-being, and future professional competence. This research examines the factors that contribute to mental anguish in nursing students using an extensive literature analysis. The research identified academic strain, financial difficulties, personal and social influences, emotional and psychological demands, institutional pressures, cultural expectations, and technological impacts as key contributors to mental anguish. The rigorous demands of nursing school, along with practical exposure to patient distress, financial pressures, and insufficient support networks, elevate the likelihood of mental health issues among nursing students. The research underscores the complex nature of mental suffering, illustrating its origins in both individual and systemic influences. The study also examines coping mechanisms and resilience methods frequently utilised by nursing students, including mindfulness, peer support, and counselling. The findings highlight the pressing necessity for educational institutions to adopt proactive strategies, such as incorporating mental health support services, providing stress management training, and establishing policies that tackle financial and workload issues.

Keywords: Mental distress, Nursing students, Academic pressure, Resilience strategies, Mental health support,