Assessing Psychological Distress Among Nursing Students Regarding Covid-19 Pandemic: A Descriptive Study

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted mental health worldwide, with nursing students particularly vulnerable to psychological distress due to the dual demands of academic and clinical responsibilities. This study aimed to assess the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among B.Sc. Nursing IV-year students in Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu, and to explore the associations between demographic factors and mental health outcomes. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 30 nursing students selected via random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising demographic information and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, with the Chi-square test used to evaluate associations between demographic variables and levels of psychological distress. The study revealed that 40% of students exhibited normal levels of depression, while 20% had mild, 10% moderate, 23.3% severe, and 6.6% extremely severe depression. Anxiety levels were predominantly normal (93.3%), with only 6.6% experiencing mild anxiety. Stress levels were diverse, with 13.3% reporting normal levels, 30% mild, 26.6% moderate, 10% severe, and 20% extremely severe stress. Significant associations were found between psychological distress and variables such as socioeconomic status, family income, hobbies, dietary habits, and study duration. Lifestyle factors like prolonged study hours and insufficient sleep were linked to higher distress levels. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted mental health interventions for nursing students, including counseling services, academic flexibility, and programs promoting healthy lifestyle habits. Addressing these challenges through a comprehensive approach is essential to fostering resilience and ensuring the well-being of nursing students, who play a critical role in healthcare delivery.