Nursing students face a unique set of stressors ranging from academic performance pressure to the challenges of balancing work and personal life. These stressors can significantly impact their well-being and, if not managed effectively, may affect their future work performance as healthcare professionals. Given the demanding nature of nursing, students need to develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress early on.
In an effort to support students in managing these challenges, the idea of creating a designated space for relaxation and stress relief was explored. “One potential solution to this issue is the creation of a designated space where students can relax, reflect, and practice stress management techniques,” explained Nora Heeney, a nursing student and president of Active Minds at Auburn University. “The research project, called Safe Space at Auburn, aims to provide a supportive environment for nursing students to identify and address their stressors constructively. The room opened within the College of Nursing in October of 2024, and the research will continue through March of this year.” Heeney is being mentored as an Auburn University undergraduate research fellow by faculty members Morgan Yordy and Seth Perry. The team held an open house to showcase the project in November of 2024, Dean Newschwander, several professors and supportive students celebrated its opening.
The Safe Space, situated on the third floor of the building, will be equipped with research-backed tools to help students unwind, including dim lighting, comfortable seating, calming scents, weighted objects, and guided relaxation posters.
According to Heeney, the main idea behind the Safe Space is simple, yet powerful. “While we may not be able to control the stressors we face, we can control how we respond to them. As nursing students transition into their careers, they will face a new stressor every day, both professionally and personally. The Safe Space encourages future nurses to avoid allowing actions and intentions to be dictated by fear and anxiety. We must embrace and process them, and reset. By doing so, we can advocate for ourselves and better manage our stress.”
To measure the space’s effectiveness, third- and fourth-semester nursing students will be surveyed regarding the room and its resources. However, all students are allowed to use it. It is expected that students will utilize the space most often during stressful times, such as test/quiz days, and before and after clinical simulation practices. Before entering the room, students will assess their stress levels using the Subjective Unit of Distress Scale (SUDS).
The room offers a variety of activities to help students relax, including silent reflection, journaling, sensory modulation, and posters for muscle relaxation exercises. “Students can explore these activities and find one that helps them step back from their situation and gain a mindful perspective,” Henney said. After using the space, students will again rate their stress levels using SUDS scale.
Heeney shared that students have responded positively to the room, noting that it provides a comforting environment where they can freely embrace their emotions. "We are incredibly proud of Nora and her passion for mental health. She will make an incredible nurse. She's compassionate, intentional, and respected. This project is a great piece of her professional journey," said Perry.
Ultimately, the project aims to help students reduce their stress levels while teaching them valuable coping strategies that they can apply throughout their academic journey and in their future professional careers.