How do you deal with the stress?

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

How do you deal with the stress of nursing prerequisites? Right now, I am LITERALLY sick for all the worrying about not doing well in my prerequisite courses. Today I took my final in Biology, and I feel like I did terrible (grades will be posted in the next couple of days). I also have a ChemI final, and no matter how hard I try, I know I won't get an A.

This is seriously harming my relationships, and it has caused a lot of arguments between myself and my partner. I don't know what I will do if I don't get accepted into my program. I have been trying to come up with a back up plan and I have none. I don't have money to waste for school, and this is really starting to get to me. I'm losing my appetite, I couldn't sleep, and I'm physically ill at this point.

How did you managed the stress in your prerequisites?

[Anne36, LPN]

Oh, I know exactly what you are going through. I could have written that myself. Well, Im married with 4 kids and I do not deal well with stress. I wish I could give you some advice that would be helpfull. Mostly I just vented to my husband when he would let me, my Mom, my Sister, anyone who would listen. Sometimes I feel like crying, and I have seen people break down in tears at school.

Its not easy, and sometimes other students and I would vent to each other which was really helpful knowing others are going through the same thing. My morning coffee break is my relaxation time and breaking up my studying with little breaks or household chores in between helped me pace myself.

Also, I always set small goals, never big ones. I take it in baby steps, 2 classes at a time so I feel like it is doable. I do want to get an RN but right now Im concentrating on getting an LPN. If that works out, then I go a step further.

[vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN]

I just want to let you know that you are not alone! I have finished 2 semesters of prereqs and was very stressed out! The only thing I can think of that helped me was when I would take time to do normal things for me and my family. For example, taking time to clean, cook, craft, bake, horseplay, read books, etc. The only problem was that whenever I did, I'd regret not studying, though I'd feel better.

I am looking forward to responses!

[Jen{NAR}]

For me, coffee is a godsend, without it I think I would be a lot more stressed out then I am. I just wish I could start my nursing training now. Good luck

[strawberryluv, BSN, RN]

I feel the same way. I am taking two pre-requisites this semester in my university's 4-year nursing program. Both of which I didn't do too well in high school- biology and chemistry. My biology class is super intense with 7-8 chapters to be read and studied within 4 weeks of each other. It feels really hard especially considering I am taking two other courses as well. I actually spend my whole day on this stuff. Its a new level of schooling especially since I just graduated from high school a couple of months ago. Sorry, I don't share any responsibilities like having kids and a partner but I empathize with your stress. I am scared because the whole program only accepts 40 students but there are actually 97 people in my pre-requisite classes.

[melissalynnb]

I am sorry that you are feeling that way. I can really relate, I was in the exact same boat. I was getting physically sick and having problems with my husband because of the high levels of stress. I know that it's easier said then done, but just try to relax. You did the best that you could do on the finals and exams. One thing that really helped me get through all the semesters is take one at a time. Just get through this semester and not worry about what is next. Also, apply to many schools even if it's a lower quality one, more expensive one etc. I applied to many of them of hoping that I would get accepted into one of them. I prayed and prayed. I was wait listed on my forsure back up plan (1st letter that I received) and then my first choice one I was accepted. So just do your best, and that is all that you can do. Go take a nice walk with you partner and explain all your anxiety, stress, pressure etc.

Best of luck!

[Justanotherday]

My school admits nursing students strictly by their GPA, so I also get stressed about my grades, especially if I have a quiz or test. I feel like my life and future are dependent on my grades because I will not get accepted into my program if I start to slack. I study at night, but of course that takes time away with my husband and family, but it is only for a season. I feel the most stress when I feel unprepared, so I really try to keep up with my studying and assignments. Coffee helps me unwind! Could not do without it. I don't know why, but it relaxes me to have a coffee break.

[melissalynnb]

My school was the same pure GPA and a NLN extrance exam score. I would suggest talking with the professor to see what you are missing or not getting. Also, seek if there is any tutoring on campus, form a study group. In A&P flashcards helped me a ton. And practice, practice and turn everything into the subject that you are learning (ie. when your husband touches you think of the medical term for that part) or go to google.com and search for videos or look through books at the bookstore. Just hang in there and take one exam at a time.

~Melissa