Which strategy helps improve psychological well-being for nurses experiencing moral distress?

• A. Make time for recreational activities.
• B. Plan to work longer hours to 'settle' issues.
• C. Avoid yoga and relaxation techniques.
• D. Darken the room and limit activities before sleep.

Answer: (A)

Coping with moral distress and maintaining psychological well-being hinge on self-care strategies that restore balance after emotionally charged experiences. Making time for recreational activities provides a clear, practical way to counteract distress: it offers a mental break from difficult situations, improves mood, and helps sustain engagement and meaning in work. Engaging in hobbies, socializing, or both builds resilience by reducing rumination, enhancing sense of personal control, and preventing burnout.

Choices that involve longer work hours to “settle” issues tend to increase fatigue and strain, and they don’t remove the moral burden—often making things worse. Avoiding yoga and relaxation techniques means missing out on evidence-based methods to lower arousal and improve coping. And keeping the room dark with limited activities before sleep can impair sleep quality, which worsens mood and cognitive function. In light of these, prioritizing recreational activities best supports psychological well-being amid moral distress.