I got accepted to nursing school but I don’t know if it’s something I should pursue

[Pineapplex3]

So I’ve spent the last 2 1/2 years completing my pre reqs for the nursing program. I’ve been a CNA for over 7 years. I worked so hard to get accepted and once I got the acceptance letter I was more bummed than I was excited. I don’t know why. I’m just so confused. I thought this is what I wanted for so long, maybe because I’ve been told this is what I should do by my family members. I would love to get a degree in psychology or social work. The thing is, a nursing degree could provide a higher income in a shorter amount of time. I have a child and am a single parent. I am so torn. Should I start the program this fall and see how I like it? I don’t want to regret leaving this opportunity, but then again I don’t want to regret not going after what I really want. I can’t see myself being a nurse, maybe because I don’t feel like I’m cut out for the job. If anyone has an advice or has gone through the same thing please feel free to comment. Thank you for reading this! 

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

This is likely not a decision you want to make overnight. Sit down, make a list of pros and cons, and take time to consider your options. You can also discuss with a trusted friend or family member if you think that would help, but I would take any advice for which way to go given here with a grain of salt as we don’t know you or your situation. I think, though, you’ve put a lot of your whys in your post already and are heavily leaning one way- perhaps seeing it in words will help you as well. 

[bitter_betsy, BSN]

I don't know what you decided however if its not too late - you could pursue the RN and focus on being an RN in a psych areas.  Although the NP market is starting to get saturated - psych NPs are hard to find.  You could end up doing the same thing as with a psych degree, but have skills that can be utilized in other areas if you find that psych isn't for you.  If you go by way of psych to begin with - you are stuck with no other way out.  By getting your RN - you are literally opening yourself up to hundreds of different types of nursing jobs available.  As a single mom - this could be more beneficial to you than any other job opportunity.

Nursing school sucks no matter what but once you graduate and have that RN - there are possibilities.  Its not just hospital bedside nursing.  You can be a school nurse while your kids are in school, and then transition to working in the hospital while they are in high school so you can go to their games... you can pick a job with a schedule you like and if you hate the job, wait it out a year or two and pick a new field.

I wish you the best with your decisions.

[Hannahbanana, BSN, MSN]

^^^ I can’t like this enough! You’ll have many more doors open to you once you finish nursing school. I know it feels interminable when you’re in it, but eyes on the prize. A psych NP has a LOT of flexibility and autonomy, and you’ll find you really like that. 

[Pineapplex3]

Thank you everyone! I understand this is the best choice I can make. I also struggle with anxiety/panic attacks and I fear this will affect my ability to pass nursing school. Especially since I experience the most of my anxiety when in public places. I need to find a way to cope and not let it hinder be but I don’t want to be on meds. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[Hannahbanana, BSN, MSN]

Start now to identify a good therapist with that specialty - get on a wait list if necessary now because therapists are bombarded with COVID work right now, but that will settle down. A short course of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) might be just the ticket.