Nursing student with a lot of social anxiety

[tuahla]

I didn't put this in the student forum because I wanted to hear what some people with experience would say.

I've been extremely shy as far back as I can remember. High school wasn't fun at all. I've tried therapy, group therapy, anxiety meds...I'm getting a little better, but very, very slowly. There is only like 1 person I would consider a friend at school, because I usually have to wait til people talk to me first. I have a wonderful family and a few good friends, and I'm not that social of a person anyway, but I'm worried about my future career.

And before you say that maybe I should think about another career - I'm halfway through nursing school, and yes, this is what I want to do. I want to help people, and be able to make a living without profiting off of something that doesn't do anyone any good. I want to be a part of making people better. I usually do better in a work atmosphere, because I have a goal to work toward, and cooperating with my coworkers to get things done is just something you have to do - in much the same way I don't have a problem with group work or my lab partners at school.

But if I'm going to be a nurse, I don't want to just be an automaton giving out medication - I want to be a GOOD nurse. I want to take care of the whole patient, be able to be a listener, confidant, counselor, everything a nurse is supposed to be, not just some cold fish. I remember being in the hospital - as a patient, it sucks beyond belief. If I'm just there doing things like a robot, it would almost be better if I wasn't there at all and someone more able could take my place. Anyone have any tips? Or can anyone just commiserate?

[MN-Nurse, ASN, RN]

The best thing you can do is to keep working on ALL your nursing skills. Social skills too.

You will get better with experience.

[RNperdiem, RN]

There are a lot of shy people out there working as nurses.

Luckily at work, your role is well defined. Socially work is a lot easier than a party for me.

Oh about the "robot" issue. Some days, I have been so busy that all there is time for is giving meds, treatments and charting. Forget about a full lunch or leaving on time.

To be a listener, confidant, or counselor requires time, and it is a great feeling when a patient opens their hearts to you.

Some days you do have the time, but some other days, a nurse is pressed to just cover the minimum.

I left my first job because all I could do was the bare minimum.

[Baboosh123]

Hi, I'm a new nurse (been working on a surgical floor for 5 months) but I thought I would give my 2 cents.

Like you, I have always struggled with being shy. I have social anxiety that got better for a while in college and has taken a sharp turn downhill with this new job. Being new and feeling so stupid some times really took a toll on my self esteem. I have been having a lot of trouble as of late even getting myself to work, just thinking about how awful the night might be. I am mostly alone in a new small town and not enjoying it too much -too boring and quiet for a city gal like me! I have spent several nights wondering if I can do this work, if I am cut out for it.

Even after all this, I am still pressing on and so should YOU. That desire to help people, to do the best for your patient is so important. It's the root of nursing and it is what will get you through. Trust me, those times when your patient gives you a hug or tells you that you made their day will be worth all the doubt and the stress. You will soon learn that you have to use your voice and the more you do, the easier it will be. Keep your family as your support group and any friends you have. If you don't have a therapist, it will help to have someone to talk to. (I'm going to start seeing one this week.)

My point is that nursing is hard and life can be that way as well. But underneath your shyness, keep your fire going and remember what you are in it for. Remember any and all victories that you have in school (talking to a patient, building a good rapport with staff, doing a great job with skills) and don't beat yourself down if you fall or feel you are not doing as well as you should be. It takes time and practice to overcome shyness and to become a GOOD nurse. Good luck!