EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND ITS PREVENTIVE POTENTIAL FOR ANXIOUS-DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AND STRESS AMONG NURSING STUDENTS

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the relationship between emotional intelligence and anxious-depressive and stress symptoms in nursing students. Material and Method: Cross-sectional, observational, quantitative study, with a correlational scope, carried out in a multicenter sample of 80 first-year nursing students (CI= 90; error=0.5); emotional intelligence was evaluated with the Trait Meta-Mood Scale Number 24 (TMMS-24), and depressive, anxious and stress symptoms with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale Number 21 (DASS-21). In addition, sociodemographic and academic characteristics were considered as control variables. The descriptive analysis was performed using frequency measures, relative central tendency, Student’s t tests, and for the correlation between dimensions, Pearson’s correlation coeficient was applied. Results: High levels of depression, anxiety and stress were registered. Depressive symptoms and stress correlated with low understanding (p<0.01) and emotional regulation (p<0.001), with the latter also showing moderate correlations with anxiety. The dimensions of emotional intelligence and symptomatology evaluated were sensitive to the presence of poor academic performance (p<0.05) and were also associated with poor sleep quality and little rest time (p<0.05). Conclusion: A greater perception of abilities to regulate and understand emotions is associated with less symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Results highlight, therefore, the importance of considering the development of emotional intelligence in the curricula, in order to improve the mental health condition of the students and promote a culture of empathetic professionals focused on patient care management.