Sharing personal information in class

[ceasarandsushi]

Today I feel liked I shared too much information in class. I shared something about addiction with someone who was very close to me. I feel like I should not have shared this information because it reflects on me...and now I am associated with addicts. People will judge even though I don't. I was also writing an essay about my life...and I think I got too personal. I gave too many details about negative things that have happened to me and my family and that is my reason for nursing. Do you guys think that it is common to share this info with class mates? Should I hold back more and realize it could ruin my professional image? I might be worrying too much but it is my first year and we all don't know each other yet, from experience... is it better to have a filter?

[MountainBikeChick]

I would say yes- always filter! Over the first semester I became close friends with a couple ladies and wouldn't filter with them now, but with everyone else, yes. My husband has a history of addiction and I would never in a million years tell that to my classmates because 1) it's not my place to tell, and 2) there is no reason they need to know. For an essay I don't mind getting 'personal', but not too personal, if it's only the teacher reading it. Sometimes they want honest writing, so that's what I give them.

[ceasarandsushi]

Thank you. I can be such an open book sometimes and then later regret it!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I feel like I should not have shared this information because it reflects on me...and now I am associated with addicts.

First of all, about 10 percent of the US population is addicted to alcohol or illicit drugs, so the problem is widespread. Therefore, many of us are associated with addicts whether we choose it or not..

Personally, I grew up in a household with a volatile parent who abused alcohol and cocaine, and many of my aunts, uncles and cousins were/are addicts, so unfortunately I also have a so-called "association with addicts."

However, I would advise you to refrain from oversharing with classmates, coworkers and others with whom you have a loose association at best. Regrettably, the world is a judgmental place, and you would not want people casting judgment on you for the poor life choices made by members of your family.

Good luck to you. Past associations with addicts are nothing to be ashamed of. What matters is your life's situation today, in the here and now.

[RNIBCLC]

My mother always said "Does it need to be said? And do I need to be the one to say it?" Good advise in general in our profession.

[Everline]

I wouldn't feel too bad about it. Learn from it and move on. There's a good chance no one is even giving it a second thought.

[SionainnRN]

I over shared my first semester of nursing school and it followed me all four semesters. I really regret it, but it didn't stop me from graduating and doing the thing I love. Start fresh tomorrow and try to ignore the judgey people.

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

Honestly, the less you share with people who are simply associates- colleagues, classmates, etc- the better. Save the real stuff for people you consider to be friends.