Anxiety: It's killing me!

[RadfordSN]

I've always been somewhat of an anxious person, but when I started nursing school it's gotten progressively worse. I can't seem to cope with the stress like I use to be able to.

I'm in my senior year, and have 2 semesters left before graduation. The source of all my anxiety seems to be the fact that I don't have a car. This semester is especially difficult because we have clinicals at various locations, and quite a few where we're on our own. I've been able to carpool, but there are about 3-5 clinicals I have no clue how I'm going to get to. Physically, I feel sick all of the time. My heart and mind races, I shake, my stomach feels like it's eating itself. I'm kind of scared. I feel like I could have a heart attack at any given moment.

I've discussed this issue of transportation with my professors and the head of the program, but all they've told me is "the handbook says you need to provide your own transportation." So I can't be a nurse because I don't have a car? It just feels very unfair, and I don't know what to do anymore. I believe the best solution would be to withdraw from the program and work as a CNA until I can afford my own vehicle and start where I left off. However, after all of this work I've put in I would feel like such a failure, and my family is so excited for graduation in May. I really would hate to "take a break" (quit, in my mind) after all that I've done. I just don't see any other way at this point.

I'd like to know what perspective others may have on this situation.

[RadfordSN]

Thank you all for your responses.

I've considered the options mentioned. Money is an issue for both my family and me. I give what cash I can for gas and free food with my waste of a meal pan.

These clinicals I've mentioned, we are completely on our own.

I was just having a rough time this past weekend. I am feeling much better today and more clear-headed (with a severe lack of sleep, who knew!).

It will be tough, but I will and can find a way to do this.

Thanks again everyone!

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

It will be tough, but I will and can find a way to do this.

That's the spirit! :) I was going to suggest posting ads wherever you can about trading stuff for rides to clinicals -- like offering to wash the car, pay for gas, feed the driver, etc. Sounds like you're already considering the barter system!

[Lilloman]

Good critical thinking Radford!

I was about to suggest the same thing, Lunah.

Other ideas:

* Does your school have an alumni association? There might be someone there willing to help you out.

* Is there someone at the facility(ies) where you are going that lives near you that would provide transport?

* Try a nearby church, especially if you are of the same denomination.

[caliotter3]

Be careful with the quit now, finish later option. I met a woman who was promised a seat back in an RN program after maternity leave. When she came back to start up where she had left off, for some strange reason, the seat was no longer "open" to her.