Re: I'm burning out before I even graduate!
"My expectations are high but I really think they have to be when we have so much influence over out pt's physical, mental and spiritual health. I just dont know how to keep going...
I dont want to be anything else.
I'm just so scared that I cant to it."
I think we are alike. At least I was like you during my second semester.
Do you know what helped me? 9-10 good hours of sleep. How? I'll tell you. I had to tell myself to stop be a perfectionist, STOP EAT yourself and just let it go -- it helped me. If I had slept only 3-4 hours because I had chapters to read and essays to write, I finally could sleep all night without feeling guilty. Your brain needs rest. You will do the same job in a shorter time when your brain rested well then when you are tired. Also, sleep deprivation affects your performance during your clinicals and therefore your self-confidence. It is like a dead circle.
It's wonderful that you noticed and are asking for advice. It is not late. You can help yourself. Heal yourself.
The second thing that was helpful for me is fitness center. I bought a membership in 24 hours fitness-- 25 dollars per month: any of their facilities, any day, any time. Sit and relax in jacuzzi or sauna after a difficult shift in the hospital at 100 am
1. sleep
2. stop eating yourself, stop being perfectionist;
3. fitness center or other activity that you will enjoy
4. try to find a friend in your program with whom you can talk/ use this website and talk to us! we are here to listen
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