Academic Journal
The Neurophysiology of Stress in Students: Effects and Interventions for Resilience.
| Title: | The Neurophysiology of Stress in Students: Effects and Interventions for Resilience. |
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| Authors: | Meuti KN; The Department of Anesthesiology Nursing, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida. |
| Source: | The Journal of nursing education [J Nurs Educ] 2026 Apr; Vol. 65 (4), pp. 247-251. Date of Electronic Publication: 2026 Jan 20. |
| Publication Type: | Journal Article; Review |
| Language: | English |
| Journal Info: | Publisher: Charles B. Slack Country of Publication: United States NLM ID: 7705432 Publication Model: Print-Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 1938-2421 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 01484834 NLM ISO Abbreviation: J Nurs Educ Subsets: MEDLINE |
| Imprint Name(s): | Publication: Thorofare, N.J. : Charles B. Slack Original Publication: New York, N.Y. : Blackiston Division, McGraw-Hill, [c1962- |
| MeSH Terms: | Students, Nursing*/psychology , Stress, Psychological*/physiopathology , Stress, Psychological*/psychology , Resilience, Psychological* , Neurophysiology*, Humans ; Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate ; Curriculum ; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ; Mindfulness |
| Abstract: | Background: Chronic stress may impair nursing students' cognitive and emotional capacities, affecting performance and well-being in undergraduate programs. This review explores neurophysiological stress effects and evidence-based interventions to promote resilience and emotional regulation. Method: A literature review synthesized peer-reviewed studies from PubMed and CINAHL on stress-related neurotransmitter changes and interventions leveraging neuroplasticity. Included studies from 2015 to 2025 evaluated mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), physical activity, peer support, and simulation-based training implemented in nursing curricula via workshops or wellness programs. Results: Chronic stress disrupts dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and cortisol pathways, potentially impairing clinical reasoning and empathy. Interventions like mindfulness, CBT, and simulation training may reduce stress, enhance emotional regulation, and improve academic and clinical performance, potentially lowering burnout risk. Conclusion: Integrating these interventions into nursing curricula may foster resilient, competent nurses. Future research should evaluate long-term outcomes and tailored strategies for diverse student populations. |
| Competing Interests: | Disclosure: KNM has received honoraria for lectures from the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology and lectures from the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. |
| Entry Date(s): | Date Created: 20260120 Date Completed: 20260630 Latest Revision: 20260630 |
| Update Code: | 20260701 |
| DOI: | 10.3928/01484834-20250826-03 |
| PMID: | 41556579 |
| Database: | MEDLINE |
| ISSN: | 1938-2421 |
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| DOI: | 10.3928/01484834-20250826-03 |