Losing the Motivation; Chronic Fatigue & Depression

[Future-NurseRedHeart]

Hi, everyone. I am in a full time accelerated nursing program (16-month entry level diploma RN) and I also work as a CNA. I find that I'm beginning to lose the motivation to study and put effort into school because I'm so exhausted/stressed all the time. I struggle with chronic fatigue and depression, so the normal being tired and stressed from nursing school is much worse for me. What kept you going so you could become a nurse, and how does it affect you as a working nurse?

[ItsThatJenGirl, CNA]

I'm not a nurse yet - but do you have to work while going to school? It's a lot to take on for anyone, IMO - especially in an accelerated program.

[Future-NurseRedHeart]

100% necessary

[iluvivt, BSN, RN]

Can you keep your CNA hours down to one shift a week....you are correct working and going to an accelerated program is a lot. You are going to school not just for a grade but to actually have the basic skiils to provide nursing care. Many decades ago when I was in school the realization hit me early that I had an obligation to give 100 percent of my effort into learning into the program.You need to make school your priority.

[adventure_rn, MSN, NP]

100% necessary

If that's the case, is it possible to slow down your program and take fewer classes at at time?

I know it's an added expense, but if you can afford it I'd definitely recommend seeing a therapist to help you with depression and coping skills during this stressful time. If you've already got a lot on your plate, the absolute last thing you want is to end up in a full-blown major depressive episode (slipping grades, absenteeism at work, taking a leave of absence, etc.)

Best of luck!!

[inthecosmos, BSN, MSN, RN, APRN]

I am in the process of continuing my education and working full-time. I did this all through my pre-licensure program and my bachelor's degree. What is important to think about is how satisfying finishing is. Count down the days, break it up into days, weeks, months. ANYTHING to mark small achievements.

If working is 100% necessary, then consider setting time out during the day for you. Break studying up with positive reinforcement activities. Remember you started this to achieve a goal!