So i cant be the only one...

[RheatherN, ASN, RN, EMT-P]

So how many of the rest of you are stressed already? its not 1/2 way thru the semester and i am stressed out already! how do you guys deal with all this? i know i know...take time for yourself. but its not working. i have never just sat and cried before, about nothing and everything all at once. every little thing that happens certain days just sets me off and i am so upset i cant do a thing. and usually its stuff about my relationship and not school. but then leads to school cuz i cant think or anything..*** does nursing school do to us?!?!?! i really have thought about meds, but i had done that one time and didnt feel a damn bit of difference and withdrawl and titrating down was the worst thing EVER.. i will never take meds again. SO, what do you do? Help the stressed please!!!! -H-

[GingerSue]

get things in perspective about your relationship, so that it won't interfere with your studying

organize your time, make a realistic schedule for covering your readings and assignments

reward yourself for each task that you complete {this is the Premack principle}

[deeDawntee, RN]

Go to your school's counseling office and talk to a professional about stress management...you will be able to talk about anything you need to and get some good, solid feedback from someone who is trained to help people. They should be available at a reduced rate. Talk therapy can actually change brain chemistry. This will be someone in your corner, who you can rely on...and may be just what you need to not only survive but thrive through the next couple of years.

[leslie :-D]

my anxieties were out of control in nsg school.

i had the most difficult time being a mom, wife and student.

everything was collapsing in my world.

i finally went to my pcp, who prescribed me an ssri and prn anxiolytic.

it was magical.

within wks, i was focused and strong again.

and i never looked back.

if your stress levels are as bad as you say, i think it goes beyond the normal stress reducers, and you really need to see your doctor.

it's up to you.

best of everything.

leslie

[locolorenzo22, BSN, RN]

Stress happens....life happens...unfortunately, school becomes your life for the length of the program...take time for you, but remember that it's only temporary...

[leslymill]

It is right, I guess, what my instructor said 27 years ago. Your personal relationships need to be very strong. Nursing school can make or break them.

Sometimes I think that is why nursing started as a profession for women forbidden to marry and living on hospital grounds. Find time to hug and cry with them. Let them know till death do us part has never felt so significant. They are there to support you better than any counselor. If you need a counselor to help pave the road and protect the goals, go for it.