Progressive Muscle Relaxation in Nursing Students: Effects on Psychological and Biopsychosocial Outcomes

Effects of Progressive Muscle Relaxation on Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Future Attitudes, and Biopsychosocial Responses in Nursing Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomised controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of progressive muscle relaxation exercises (PMRE) on depression, anxiety, stress, future-oriented attitudes, and biopsychosocial responses in nursing students. The study was conducted between June 2024 and June 2025 with students enrolled in the Nursing Department. Data collection took place between January and March 2025. When selecting participants, a list of participants meeting the inclusion criteria was created using snowball sampling. A total of 104 students were randomly divided into experimental and control groups of 52 students each. Data were collected using the DASS-21, Future Orientation Scale, and Biopsychosocial Response Scale for Nursing Students.

Nursing students often face academic stress, emotional demands and clinical responsibilities, which can lead to psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, stress and concerns about their future. These issues can affect both their well-being and professional competence. Progressive muscle relaxation exercises (PMRE) are recognised as a useful method for reducing muscle tension, managing stress, and improving emotional regulation.

This randomised controlled trial was conducted between June 2024 and June 2025 with students studying Nursing. The data collection phase was carried out between January and March 2025. Participants meeting the inclusion criteria were identified using snowball sampling, and a list was created. A total of 104 nursing students on this list were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (receiving PMRE) or a control group, with 52 participants in each group. A pre-test-post-test design was used. Measurement tools included the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), the Future Orientation Scale, and the Biopsychosocial Response Scale for Nursing Students.

This study was supported by the Turkish Scientific and Technological Research Council (TÜBİTAK) under the 2209-A University Student Research Projects Support Programme.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being registered in the Department of Nursing
• Voluntary consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having joint or muscle pain, or any condition that may interfere with performing relaxation exercises
• Having a diagnosis of cancer or any chronic disease
• Having a psychiatric disorder that may interfere with obtaining valid results from the study (e.g., major depressive disorder, severe anxiety disorders, serious psychiatric conditions)
• Currently receiving antidepressant, anxiolytic, or similar psychiatric treatment
• Regular use of non-pharmacological methods such as yoga, psychotherapy, or similar practices