Mind the gap: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for preventing stress-related ill-health among future nurses

Stress-related ill-health is a major problem in the nursing profession with negative consequences for individuals and society alike. Previous studies have shown that part of this problem may be traced back to the development of stress occurring already during nursing training. This randomized controlled trial aimed to examine the effect of a 6x2 hours Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) group intervention targeting stress in nursing students (n=113). ACT participants reported significant improvements in perceived stress, burnout, work engagement, self-rated health, psychological flexibility, and mindful awareness, at post-intervention, as compared to controls receiving treatment as usual. At three months follow-up, achieved levels were sustained; significant for perceived stress, burnout, work engagement, and mindful awareness. Dose-response analyses showed that more participation resulted in greater effects. According to process analyses, improvements in perceived stress, burnout and self-rated health were related to core ACT processes. The