Assessing the Need for Counseling Services among Nursing Students in Northern Malaysia: A critical insight into a neglected area of nursing education

Darul Farah Yaacob; Rusnani Ab Latif; Yoyok Bekti Prasetyo; Ns.Henny Dwi Susanti

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI35.7507

Authors

Darul Farah Yaacob Faculty of Health Sciences, University Teknologi MARA, Pulau Pinang Branch, Campus Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,
Rusnani Ab Latif Faculty of Health Sciences, University Teknologi MARA, Pulau Pinang Branch, Campus Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,
Yoyok Bekti Prasetyo University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Indonesia
Ns.Henny Dwi Susanti University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI35.7507

Keywords:

Nursing Students, Guidance and Counseling, Psychosocial well-being, Stress Management.

Abstract

Nursing students in northern Malaysia experience considerable academic demands, emotional strain, and clinical duties, all of which impact their mental well-being and academic performance. This study explores their counseling needs, with an emphasis on self-leadership, communication skills, learning techniques, and coping strategies. By surveys and focus group discussions, major themes such as heavy workloads, clinical-related stress, and feelings of isolation emerged. Findings highlight shortcomings in existing counseling services, especially in stress management and resilience-building. The study proposes the implementation of a structured, accessible, and student-focused counseling framework designed to support nursing students in becoming resilient and well-prepared healthcare professionals.

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