Investigating the Relationship between the Level of Engagement with Art and Stress Levels among Nurses in Zahedan Social Security Hospital

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Faculty Member, Department of Handicrafts, University of Sistan and Baluchestan., Zahedan, Iran.

10.22111/jep.2026.53025.1096

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationship between nurses’ engagement with art and their stress levels, as well as to identify the dimensions of this engagement in alleviating occupational psychological stress. The study employed a descriptive-analytical design, and data were collected quantitatively. The target population consisted of nurses working in various departments of urban hospitals. Simple random sampling was used, and 117 nurses participated in the study. Data were gathered using a standardized stress assessment questionnaire and a specifically designed questionnaire to measure engagement with art. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics (mean, frequency) and correlation analysis. Findings indicated that engagement with art is a multidimensional phenomenon encompassing temporal, content, qualitative, and functional dimensions. Nurses who participated in artistic activities regularly and at a moderate level, and who were actively involved in the creative process, reported lower stress levels. Music was the most accessible form of art, while visual arts had the deepest calming effect. Nevertheless, very high engagement alone was not sufficient to ensure stress reduction, as work-related pressures continued to influence stress levels. Integrating artistic activities into nurses’ welfare and support programs is recommended as a cost-effective and efficient strategy for reducing occupational stress. Choosing suitable types of art, maintaining consistency in participation, and promoting active engagement play a crucial role in enhancing nurses’ mental well-being.

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Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Epigenetics
Volume 7, Issue 1
April 2026
Pages 8-14

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History

  • Receive Date: 22 August 2025
  • Revise Date: 13 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 19 January 2026

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