EFFECTS OF HEARTFULNESS SELF DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM ON PSYCHOLOGICAL FLOURISHING OF STUDENT NURSES

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Heartfulness self-development program in improving psychological flourishing of nursing students. Methodology: The study was designed as a prospective interventional study to examine the effects on positive psychological flourishing parameters such as empathy, optimism, self-confidence, positive outlook towards future, and social responsibilities. Participants of this study are students of a four-year undergraduate program in a nursing college in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. Psychological flourishing scores [Ed Diener and Robert Biswas-Diener, 2009] were evaluated before and after a 24-week Heartfulness self-development program. Results: Data from 174 students was collected and analyzed using SPSS version 21.There was a significant overall increase in the psychological flourishing of nursing students after the intervention [P < 0.000*]. This improvement persisted even in the subgroup analysis based on academic year and family background. Conclusion: Significant improvements in psychological flourishing of nursing students were observed with the Heartfulness self-development program. Stress is a salient facet of nursing professionals, due to the excessive work load and long working hours they spend in tending to and taking care of patients. Nursing students experience substantial stress when they undergo training as nurses, and additionally endure anxiety from their academic pressures, financial concerns, family problems, and uncertainties of their future. In this study the intervention has substantially increased the self-confidence of the students, facilitating them to look within and explore their inner potential to successfully fulfil their goals and expectations.