Has anyone been through a divorce during nursing school?

Nurses Stress 101

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I'm about to start nursing school in 3 weeks and I'm having serious problems in my marriage. We've been married for almost 10 years and I've been sleeping in a separate bedroom for almost 3 years. Sometimes if we're getting along I'll move back into the main room but it doesn't last long before there's another fight. He's a really great father (we have a 9 year old) and he's financially supportive and encourages me to finish my education, but we have grown apart and cant seem to stop fighting. We have tried therapy multiple times and nothing works. My question is do you think it's more stressful to stay in a toxic marriage during school or go through a divorce? I'm so worried this is going to affect my grades. I feel so depressed and I just don't know what to do so any input is greatly appreciated.

Ruby Vee, BSN

17 Articles; 14,030 Posts

Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.

I got married in nursing school and went through a divorce during graduate school. It was difficult, but necessary as my ex-husband was abusive.

Can you support yourself and your child if necessary while you're going to nursing school? If so, can you rely on family members for help with child care, moral support, and the occasional errand or chore?

Can you tolerate your husband just until you're through nursing school, knowing that you can divorce him when you're finished?

If you're emotionally and financially ready for a divorce, go for it. It's not easy, but it may be easier than continuing to live with someone when you're DONE. If you're not emotionally and financially ready, get your ducks in a row before initiating a divorce.

Of course, if things are truly miserable, he may initiate the divorce and then you have to react. My best advice is to get your ducks in a row BEFORE initiating the divorce talk -- then at that point you can decide whether to go ahead with it right then or wait for a better time for YOU.

I'm sorry about your situation. It sucks.

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