Mindfulness Matters: Enhancing Mental Health and Reducing Stress in Nursing Students.

This phenomenological study explored undergraduate nursing students' experiences in a critical care course, focusing on mindfulness and stress management. Reflections over 15 weeks were analyzed using the Sort and Sift, Think and Shift method. Findings revealed initial high stress and poor mental health, followed by gradual development of coping strategies. Students demonstrated a shift in tone and mindset, gaining deeper insights as they processed emotions. Three themes emerged: goal setting, coping, and mindfulness. Mindfulness practices fostered resilience and well-being, highlighting their value as an educational strategy to prepare nurses for high-stress clinical environments.