A resilience project for mental health and well-being of nursing students during the pandemic
Author(s)
Leung, Dion Sik Yee
Date Issued
2026
Conference
International Conference on Human Resilience: Navigating Life Changes & Challenges (HRCONF2026)
Abstract
Evidence shows that university students, especially nursing students, experienced considerable health impacts during COVID-19. As the future of healthcare professionals, they not only care for patients in hospitals but also promote the well-being of community members. It is essential for nurses to maintain their own physical and psychological health while embodying a positive attitude, compassion, and a desire to help and support others. To address these needs, a training project was implemented to enhance the mental health and well-being of nursing students from August 1, 2021, to April 30, 2022, during the pandemic. This feasibility study employed a mixed-methods design that combined a non-randomized waitlist-control survey with a qualitative descriptive study. A total of 60 students from two tertiary institutions were recruited. They participated in four 3-hour sessions of a positive psychology intervention that focused on laughter yoga exercises and training leaders in this practice. In total, 54 students completed the 12-hour training program: 31 from the intervention group and 23 from the control group. Of these, 48 students were successfully certified as Laughter Yoga Leaders. The project showed a positive short-term impact, as evidenced by significant differences between pre- and post-test questionnaires. The survey results echoed the findings from qualitative focus group interviews. Students reported experiencing high levels of stress and emotional strain while managing their studies and clinical placements during COVID-19. Participants noted several benefits from the resilience project, including enhanced positive emotions, improved interpersonal relationships, reduced stress, and greater ability to cope during difficult times. They enjoyed the training and expressed willingness to introduce laughter exercises to their friends, family members, and local community. In the long term, promoting the mental well-being of nursing students will benefit not only the students themselves but also other college students, patients, the public, and the nursing profession as a whole.
SFU Affiliated Publication
Yes
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