Supporting new nurses - Building resiliency from the start

IU Health is preparing to help nurse residents build skills they need to strengthen resilience, support mental well-being and set nurse residents up to thrive.

This spring marked the start of preparations for the summer 2026 launch of MindBodyStrong, an evidence-based wellness and stress management program for nurse residents. The program focuses on building practical behavioral skills to help new nurses navigate the emotional and mental demands of the profession. The ultimate aim is to support well-being early on so nurse residents can grow, succeed and thrive both on the job and beyond.

Proactive support for a healthier workforce

At its core, MindBodyStrong is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy principles. The program focuses on building awareness, strengthening coping strategies and helping participants manage stressors. Originally created to help children develop behavioral coping skills, the program has since been adapted for healthcare workers, making it especially relevant for nurses navigating high-pressure clinical settings. The initiative strongly aligns with IU Health’s vision of building the healthiest workforce, recognizing that caregiver well-being is foundational to patient care, safety and long-term retention.

What the program looks like

MindBodyStrong is a seven-week program delivered through 45-minute weekly virtual coaching sessions. Participants join online in small groups, creating space for reflection, discussion and skill-building. IU Health trained 25 facilitators in early March, laying the groundwork for a broader launch. The program will initially be implemented with nurse residents, with a long-term vision of expanding participation. Full implementation within the nurse residency program is anticipated by the end of summer 2026.

Setting IU Health apart

While wellness initiatives are gaining traction across healthcare, MindBodyStrong positions IU Health as a leader in the state.

“To our knowledge, IU Health is the first health system in Indiana to launch this program for nurses,” says Tim Grino, nurse residency coordinator. “That’s something we’re really proud of.”

By embedding structured mental health and coping support directly into nurse residency, IU Health is signaling that emotional well-being is a priority.

Beyond the bedside

One of the program’s most powerful aspects is its reach beyond the workplace. Participants have reported using the skills in their everyday life.