10 answers
Jocelyn
Student
Palmer, Alaska
5
Questions
Asked
823 views
How to deal with stress while learning in a nursing career?
Within the nursing community, what are three things that people who work within this profession does not talk about enough to newly high school graduates and or fresh college students who look forward to applying their dedicated time within this vast career. Be as it may, about how to motivate you to continue to strive through the hardships that will happen along the way?
Login to comment
10 answers
Teresa Soares
Human Resources
1
Answer
Springfield, Massachusetts
Updated
Teresa’s Answer
In navigating through any potentially stressful situation, whether personal or professional,
1. Eliminate any negative influences in your life that may add to your stress, allowing you to maintain focus.
2. Prioritize your well-being: Make sure to put self-care at the top of your list and take necessary breaks.
3. Establish and maintain order: Develop a routine and stick to a schedule to reduce stress.
4. Build a network of support with your peers: Encourage mutual support with classmates and study circles.
5. Master the art of saying no: Set your boundaries and don't be afraid to turn down tasks when needed.
6. Begin a personal journal: Use it to reflect on your journey and monitor your growth.
7. Keep your eyes on the prize: Always remember your career objectives to stay driven.
Keep pushing forward, always giving your best, and remember...YOU CAN DO IT!
1. Eliminate any negative influences in your life that may add to your stress, allowing you to maintain focus.
2. Prioritize your well-being: Make sure to put self-care at the top of your list and take necessary breaks.
3. Establish and maintain order: Develop a routine and stick to a schedule to reduce stress.
4. Build a network of support with your peers: Encourage mutual support with classmates and study circles.
5. Master the art of saying no: Set your boundaries and don't be afraid to turn down tasks when needed.
6. Begin a personal journal: Use it to reflect on your journey and monitor your growth.
7. Keep your eyes on the prize: Always remember your career objectives to stay driven.
Keep pushing forward, always giving your best, and remember...YOU CAN DO IT!
Richard Tracy - IMBA
Sales
17
Answers
Batavia, Illinois
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Hi Jocelyn!
The other answers you have received here are really fantastic, I would take them to heart. My wife is a nurse (she earned her degree in the USA while English is her second language) so as a family member to a nurse; there are indeed aspects of nursing that cause stress and are challenging for all nurses. Stress management, spirituality, and family will help you through some of these most difficult moments.
Please also, keep this in perspective as you advance through your career. The fact that you are conscientious enough to ask this question confirms to me that you will be a great nurse.
As you think to stress in the workplace, it is important to be pragmatic. All jobs carry with them some stress; that is why we call them work and not play or relaxation. Facing those stresses head-on and in a deliberate manner are what make some people better at handling stressful situations than others; when we procrastinate and put things off, they only tend to be more difficult to resolve later.
All first responders and healthcare workers have the stress of being concerned for their patient's wellbeing; at the same time, construction managers have the stress of getting their workers home safe. Farm families are concerned for their family's health on the farm, dangerous accidents that might occur, a failed crop perhaps. People in manufacturing are stressed out by countless issues, can they keep enough work coming in to retain their workforce, should they use dangerous machinery that can seriously injure employees, could a manufacturing defect that they caused kill someone in a product that they manufacturer?
So in your role as a nurse you will have patients from all walks of life; they will be stressed out too as oftentimes healthcare is reactive, so they will need you to help them see through their stresses and experiences so that they can get better and return to their lives and families.
As a nurse, you will do great, and your patients will truly appreciate you!
The other answers you have received here are really fantastic, I would take them to heart. My wife is a nurse (she earned her degree in the USA while English is her second language) so as a family member to a nurse; there are indeed aspects of nursing that cause stress and are challenging for all nurses. Stress management, spirituality, and family will help you through some of these most difficult moments.
Please also, keep this in perspective as you advance through your career. The fact that you are conscientious enough to ask this question confirms to me that you will be a great nurse.
As you think to stress in the workplace, it is important to be pragmatic. All jobs carry with them some stress; that is why we call them work and not play or relaxation. Facing those stresses head-on and in a deliberate manner are what make some people better at handling stressful situations than others; when we procrastinate and put things off, they only tend to be more difficult to resolve later.
All first responders and healthcare workers have the stress of being concerned for their patient's wellbeing; at the same time, construction managers have the stress of getting their workers home safe. Farm families are concerned for their family's health on the farm, dangerous accidents that might occur, a failed crop perhaps. People in manufacturing are stressed out by countless issues, can they keep enough work coming in to retain their workforce, should they use dangerous machinery that can seriously injure employees, could a manufacturing defect that they caused kill someone in a product that they manufacturer?
So in your role as a nurse you will have patients from all walks of life; they will be stressed out too as oftentimes healthcare is reactive, so they will need you to help them see through their stresses and experiences so that they can get better and return to their lives and families.
As a nurse, you will do great, and your patients will truly appreciate you!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
574
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Jocelyn,
Nursing school is undeniably stressful. Here are some strategies to cope:
Self-Care and Work-Life Balance:
Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is crucial. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep. Mindfulness practices, like meditation and yoga, can also help manage stress.
Set Boundaries: It's important to establish boundaries between work and personal life. This can involve saying no to extra shifts if you're already feeling overwhelmed, or making sure you have time for hobbies and relaxation outside of work.
Seek Support:
Build a Support Network: Connect with colleagues, mentors, and friends who understand the challenges of nursing. Having people to talk to and share experiences with can be a valuable source of support and encouragement.
Professional Counseling: If stress becomes overwhelming, consider seeking help from a counselor or therapist. They can provide coping strategies and emotional support.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation:
Stay Educated: Nursing is a field that constantly evolves. Continuing education can help you stay updated on best practices and improve your confidence in your skills.
Develop Time Management Skills: Efficiently managing your time can reduce stress by helping you handle workload demands more effectively.
Three Undiscussed Aspects in the Nursing Profession
Emotional Toll and Compassion Fatigue:
Undiscussed Aspect: The emotional burden of caring for patients, especially in critical or end-of-life situations, can be significant. Nurses often form deep connections with their patients and may experience compassion fatigue or burnout.
Coping Strategy: Acknowledge your emotions and seek peer support. Participate in debriefing sessions and utilize employee assistance programs if available.
Workplace Dynamics and Hierarchical Challenges:
Undiscussed Aspect: Navigating workplace dynamics, including interactions with doctors, other healthcare professionals, and administrative staff, can be challenging. The hierarchical nature of healthcare settings can sometimes make communication and collaboration difficult.
Coping Strategy: Develop strong communication and conflict-resolution skills. Building positive relationships with colleagues can create a more supportive work environment.
Physical Demands and Long Hours:
Undiscussed Aspect: The physical demands of nursing, including long hours, shift work, and the need for physical stamina, are often underestimated. This can lead to physical exhaustion and health issues.
Coping Strategy: Focus on ergonomics and proper body mechanics to prevent injuries. Prioritize rest and recovery, and consider seeking roles with schedules that better fit your lifestyle, if needed.
Staying Motivated Through Hardships
Remember Your Purpose: Reflect on why you chose the nursing profession. The desire to help others and make a difference can be a powerful motivator, especially during tough times.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This can boost your morale and remind you of your progress.
Set Personal and Professional Goals: Having clear goals can provide direction and motivation. Whether it's advancing in your career, gaining new skills, or simply improving patient care, having something to strive for can keep you focused and driven.
Best wishes!
Nursing school is undeniably stressful. Here are some strategies to cope:
Self-Care and Work-Life Balance:
Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is crucial. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep. Mindfulness practices, like meditation and yoga, can also help manage stress.
Set Boundaries: It's important to establish boundaries between work and personal life. This can involve saying no to extra shifts if you're already feeling overwhelmed, or making sure you have time for hobbies and relaxation outside of work.
Seek Support:
Build a Support Network: Connect with colleagues, mentors, and friends who understand the challenges of nursing. Having people to talk to and share experiences with can be a valuable source of support and encouragement.
Professional Counseling: If stress becomes overwhelming, consider seeking help from a counselor or therapist. They can provide coping strategies and emotional support.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation:
Stay Educated: Nursing is a field that constantly evolves. Continuing education can help you stay updated on best practices and improve your confidence in your skills.
Develop Time Management Skills: Efficiently managing your time can reduce stress by helping you handle workload demands more effectively.
Three Undiscussed Aspects in the Nursing Profession
Emotional Toll and Compassion Fatigue:
Undiscussed Aspect: The emotional burden of caring for patients, especially in critical or end-of-life situations, can be significant. Nurses often form deep connections with their patients and may experience compassion fatigue or burnout.
Coping Strategy: Acknowledge your emotions and seek peer support. Participate in debriefing sessions and utilize employee assistance programs if available.
Workplace Dynamics and Hierarchical Challenges:
Undiscussed Aspect: Navigating workplace dynamics, including interactions with doctors, other healthcare professionals, and administrative staff, can be challenging. The hierarchical nature of healthcare settings can sometimes make communication and collaboration difficult.
Coping Strategy: Develop strong communication and conflict-resolution skills. Building positive relationships with colleagues can create a more supportive work environment.
Physical Demands and Long Hours:
Undiscussed Aspect: The physical demands of nursing, including long hours, shift work, and the need for physical stamina, are often underestimated. This can lead to physical exhaustion and health issues.
Coping Strategy: Focus on ergonomics and proper body mechanics to prevent injuries. Prioritize rest and recovery, and consider seeking roles with schedules that better fit your lifestyle, if needed.
Staying Motivated Through Hardships
Remember Your Purpose: Reflect on why you chose the nursing profession. The desire to help others and make a difference can be a powerful motivator, especially during tough times.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This can boost your morale and remind you of your progress.
Set Personal and Professional Goals: Having clear goals can provide direction and motivation. Whether it's advancing in your career, gaining new skills, or simply improving patient care, having something to strive for can keep you focused and driven.
Best wishes!
Aleah Harris
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
26
Answers
California, Missouri
Updated
Aleah’s Answer
Jocelyn,
I have three pieces of advice for managing stress. See a counselor early and often; many colleges provide this to students for a limited time for free! Make yoga or another form of exercise part of your daily routine. This has really helped me to manage stress, stay in tune with my body, and feel like I am devoting some time to my own well being. Lastly, take control of your thought life. It’s amazing how much negative thoughts and emotions can drain us, even though we haven’t done enough physically that we should be drained! I was unaware of this until I read “The Power of Positive Thinking” by Norman Vincent Peale and began changing my thoughts to positive, peaceful, uplifting thoughts rather than fearful, depressed, anxiety producing thoughts and felt more energized than I had in years!
If you are neglecting self-care including healthy meals and snacks, eight cups of daily water intake, daily exercise, at least eight hours of sleep, and personal hygiene (such as brushing your teeth), your schedule is too hectic! Believe it or not, I had a long period of time in my nursing career where I neglected almost all of these items! I couldn’t believe how much my life improved when I quit working three jobs and actually took the time for these basic necessities of life.
Things that are not talked about in nursing are the struggle to maintain work/life balance - the extra shifts are endless and you must learn to say no when you need a break!
The hierarchy - no matter how high you go you will always be asked when you’re going on to the next step. “You’re an NA. When will you be a CNA? You’re a CNA. When will you be a CMT? You’re a CMT. When will you be an LPN? You’re an LPN. When will you be an RN? You’re an RN. When will you be a BSN? You’re a BSN. When will you be a Nurse Practitioner? You’re a Nurse Practitioner? What a waste! You should have just been a doctor!” Don’t listen to these things! Find what aspect of healthcare you enjoy and can make a difference, regardless of the level in the hierarchy, and do what makes you happy! We can’t all be doctors! But we are all helping patients! Who will bathe patients or draw blood if we are all doctors? “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent” - Eleanor Rosevelt.
The drugs, alcohol, smoking, sex, and brokenness - most nurses are broken people which is why they went into a field to help and care for others. Most nurses drink - a lot. Most nurses smoke or vape. Most nurses do drugs - marijuana at the very least. Most nurses have sex very indiscriminately. Just because you’re in nursing doesn’t mean you have to do these things! I very rarely drink, don’t do drugs or smoke, and have a long time partner. Develop healthy habits and coping mechanisms. I know a doctor who runs seven miles a day because he needs an outlet and doesn’t want it to be drugs or alcohol. Be that person. You can do it!
Lastly, when things get hard, remind yourself why you chose nursing in the first place. Remind yourself of the amazing experiences you’ve been a part of; the lives you saved. Be proud of yourself! You are successful, you are independent, and you are a life changer! Not everyone can do this job; but you can!
Read “The Power of Positive Thinking” by Norman Vincent Peale.
Take time for all basic aspects of self-care, including sleep, water, healthy food, exercise, and personal hygiene every day!
See a counselor. Don’t wait until you feel like you have to see one; work on your mental health and habits early, before they are broken!
Develop healthy coping mechanisms early!
Be proud of yourself! Not everyone can do this job, but you can! Perhaps you were created for such a time as this!
I have three pieces of advice for managing stress. See a counselor early and often; many colleges provide this to students for a limited time for free! Make yoga or another form of exercise part of your daily routine. This has really helped me to manage stress, stay in tune with my body, and feel like I am devoting some time to my own well being. Lastly, take control of your thought life. It’s amazing how much negative thoughts and emotions can drain us, even though we haven’t done enough physically that we should be drained! I was unaware of this until I read “The Power of Positive Thinking” by Norman Vincent Peale and began changing my thoughts to positive, peaceful, uplifting thoughts rather than fearful, depressed, anxiety producing thoughts and felt more energized than I had in years!
If you are neglecting self-care including healthy meals and snacks, eight cups of daily water intake, daily exercise, at least eight hours of sleep, and personal hygiene (such as brushing your teeth), your schedule is too hectic! Believe it or not, I had a long period of time in my nursing career where I neglected almost all of these items! I couldn’t believe how much my life improved when I quit working three jobs and actually took the time for these basic necessities of life.
Things that are not talked about in nursing are the struggle to maintain work/life balance - the extra shifts are endless and you must learn to say no when you need a break!
The hierarchy - no matter how high you go you will always be asked when you’re going on to the next step. “You’re an NA. When will you be a CNA? You’re a CNA. When will you be a CMT? You’re a CMT. When will you be an LPN? You’re an LPN. When will you be an RN? You’re an RN. When will you be a BSN? You’re a BSN. When will you be a Nurse Practitioner? You’re a Nurse Practitioner? What a waste! You should have just been a doctor!” Don’t listen to these things! Find what aspect of healthcare you enjoy and can make a difference, regardless of the level in the hierarchy, and do what makes you happy! We can’t all be doctors! But we are all helping patients! Who will bathe patients or draw blood if we are all doctors? “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent” - Eleanor Rosevelt.
The drugs, alcohol, smoking, sex, and brokenness - most nurses are broken people which is why they went into a field to help and care for others. Most nurses drink - a lot. Most nurses smoke or vape. Most nurses do drugs - marijuana at the very least. Most nurses have sex very indiscriminately. Just because you’re in nursing doesn’t mean you have to do these things! I very rarely drink, don’t do drugs or smoke, and have a long time partner. Develop healthy habits and coping mechanisms. I know a doctor who runs seven miles a day because he needs an outlet and doesn’t want it to be drugs or alcohol. Be that person. You can do it!
Lastly, when things get hard, remind yourself why you chose nursing in the first place. Remind yourself of the amazing experiences you’ve been a part of; the lives you saved. Be proud of yourself! You are successful, you are independent, and you are a life changer! Not everyone can do this job; but you can!
Aleah recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6230
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jocelyn!
AI:
How to Deal with Stress While Learning in a Nursing Career
Stress management is crucial for nursing students, as the demands of the profession can be overwhelming. Here are several strategies to help manage stress effectively:
Time Management: Develop a structured schedule that allocates time for studying, clinical practice, and personal activities. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, and break larger assignments into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Self-Care Practices: Engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure adequate sleep. These foundational aspects of self-care can significantly impact your mental health and resilience against stress.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine. These techniques can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
Seek Support: Build a support network with fellow nursing students, faculty members, friends, and family. Sharing experiences and challenges can provide emotional relief and practical advice.
Professional Counseling Services: Many educational institutions offer counseling services for students facing academic or personal challenges. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you find stress unmanageable.
Focus on Your Passion: Remind yourself why you chose nursing as a career. Keeping your passion at the forefront can motivate you during tough times.
Three Things Not Talked About Enough in Nursing
While many aspects of nursing are discussed openly among professionals, there are critical topics that often go unaddressed with new students:
Emotional Resilience: The emotional toll of nursing is significant but often underestimated by newcomers. Students should be prepared for the emotional challenges they will face when dealing with patients’ suffering or loss. Developing emotional resilience through reflection, peer support groups, or mentorship can be invaluable.
Work-Life Balance Challenges: The demanding nature of nursing education often leads to neglecting personal life and relationships. New nurses must learn how to set boundaries between work/study time and personal time early on to prevent burnout.
The Importance of Advocacy: Many new nurses may not realize how vital advocacy is within their role—both for their patients and themselves. Understanding how to advocate for patient needs while also recognizing when to advocate for one’s own well-being is essential in navigating the complexities of healthcare environments.
Motivation Through Hardships
To stay motivated through the inevitable hardships encountered in a nursing career:
Set Realistic Goals: Break down long-term goals into smaller milestones that are achievable within shorter time frames.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge progress regularly; celebrating small achievements can boost morale and motivation.
Connect with Mentors: Seek out mentors who have navigated similar paths; their insights can provide guidance and encouragement during challenging times.
Stay Informed about the Profession: Engaging with current trends in healthcare can reignite passion for the field by reminding you of its impact on society.
Practice Gratitude: Regularly reflect on what you are grateful for in your journey; this practice can shift focus from stressors to positive aspects of your experience.
By implementing these strategies and being aware of the less-discussed realities of nursing education, aspiring nurses can better prepare themselves for both academic success and a fulfilling career in healthcare.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Nurses Association (ANA) - Provides resources on professional development, ethics, advocacy, and self-care strategies tailored specifically for nurses.
National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) - Offers guidance on student engagement in nursing education along with resources focused on managing stress during studies.
Nursing Times - A reputable publication that discusses various aspects of nursing practice including mental health awareness among nurses and coping mechanisms for stress management in clinical settings.
God Bless!
JC.
AI:
How to Deal with Stress While Learning in a Nursing Career
Stress management is crucial for nursing students, as the demands of the profession can be overwhelming. Here are several strategies to help manage stress effectively:
Time Management: Develop a structured schedule that allocates time for studying, clinical practice, and personal activities. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, and break larger assignments into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Self-Care Practices: Engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure adequate sleep. These foundational aspects of self-care can significantly impact your mental health and resilience against stress.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine. These techniques can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
Seek Support: Build a support network with fellow nursing students, faculty members, friends, and family. Sharing experiences and challenges can provide emotional relief and practical advice.
Professional Counseling Services: Many educational institutions offer counseling services for students facing academic or personal challenges. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you find stress unmanageable.
Focus on Your Passion: Remind yourself why you chose nursing as a career. Keeping your passion at the forefront can motivate you during tough times.
Three Things Not Talked About Enough in Nursing
While many aspects of nursing are discussed openly among professionals, there are critical topics that often go unaddressed with new students:
Emotional Resilience: The emotional toll of nursing is significant but often underestimated by newcomers. Students should be prepared for the emotional challenges they will face when dealing with patients’ suffering or loss. Developing emotional resilience through reflection, peer support groups, or mentorship can be invaluable.
Work-Life Balance Challenges: The demanding nature of nursing education often leads to neglecting personal life and relationships. New nurses must learn how to set boundaries between work/study time and personal time early on to prevent burnout.
The Importance of Advocacy: Many new nurses may not realize how vital advocacy is within their role—both for their patients and themselves. Understanding how to advocate for patient needs while also recognizing when to advocate for one’s own well-being is essential in navigating the complexities of healthcare environments.
Motivation Through Hardships
To stay motivated through the inevitable hardships encountered in a nursing career:
Set Realistic Goals: Break down long-term goals into smaller milestones that are achievable within shorter time frames.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge progress regularly; celebrating small achievements can boost morale and motivation.
Connect with Mentors: Seek out mentors who have navigated similar paths; their insights can provide guidance and encouragement during challenging times.
Stay Informed about the Profession: Engaging with current trends in healthcare can reignite passion for the field by reminding you of its impact on society.
Practice Gratitude: Regularly reflect on what you are grateful for in your journey; this practice can shift focus from stressors to positive aspects of your experience.
By implementing these strategies and being aware of the less-discussed realities of nursing education, aspiring nurses can better prepare themselves for both academic success and a fulfilling career in healthcare.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Nurses Association (ANA) - Provides resources on professional development, ethics, advocacy, and self-care strategies tailored specifically for nurses.
National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) - Offers guidance on student engagement in nursing education along with resources focused on managing stress during studies.
Nursing Times - A reputable publication that discusses various aspects of nursing practice including mental health awareness among nurses and coping mechanisms for stress management in clinical settings.
God Bless!
JC.
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
176
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Dealing with stress is important in any career, including nursing. Here are some tips to help manage stress while learning in a nursing career:
1. Take Care of Yourself Physically:
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to ensure your body and mind are well-rested.
- Eat a balanced diet: Fueling your body with nutritious food can support your overall well-being and help manage stress.
- Engage in regular exercise: Physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Find activities you enjoy and incorporate them into your routine.
2. Practice Time Management:
- Create a schedule: Plan your study time, breaks, and leisure activities to ensure a balanced routine.
- Prioritize tasks: Identify the most important tasks and focus on completing them first. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
- Avoid procrastination: Procrastination can lead to increased stress. Start tasks early and break them down into smaller, more manageable parts.
3. Seek Support:
- Connect with classmates: Form study groups or join student organizations to connect with fellow nursing students who can offer support and understanding.
- Talk to instructors or mentors: Reach out to your instructors or mentors for guidance, advice, and support. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate challenges.
4. Practice Stress-Relief Techniques:
- Deep breathing exercises: Deep, slow breaths can help calm your mind and body. Practice deep breathing during study breaks or whenever you feel overwhelmed.
- Meditation and mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or guided imagery, to reduce stress and increase relaxation.
- Engage in hobbies or activities you enjoy: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This can include reading, listening to music, spending time in nature, or pursuing creative outlets.
5. Seek Emotional Support:
- Talk to friends and family: Share your feelings and concerns with trusted friends or family members who can provide a listening ear and emotional support.
- Consider seeking professional help: If stress becomes overwhelming or starts affecting your daily life, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.
Remember, self-care and stress management are ongoing practices. Finding what works best for you may involve some trial and error. Prioritize your well-being and make intentional efforts to manage stress effectively throughout your nursing career.
1. Take Care of Yourself Physically:
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to ensure your body and mind are well-rested.
- Eat a balanced diet: Fueling your body with nutritious food can support your overall well-being and help manage stress.
- Engage in regular exercise: Physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Find activities you enjoy and incorporate them into your routine.
2. Practice Time Management:
- Create a schedule: Plan your study time, breaks, and leisure activities to ensure a balanced routine.
- Prioritize tasks: Identify the most important tasks and focus on completing them first. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
- Avoid procrastination: Procrastination can lead to increased stress. Start tasks early and break them down into smaller, more manageable parts.
3. Seek Support:
- Connect with classmates: Form study groups or join student organizations to connect with fellow nursing students who can offer support and understanding.
- Talk to instructors or mentors: Reach out to your instructors or mentors for guidance, advice, and support. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate challenges.
4. Practice Stress-Relief Techniques:
- Deep breathing exercises: Deep, slow breaths can help calm your mind and body. Practice deep breathing during study breaks or whenever you feel overwhelmed.
- Meditation and mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or guided imagery, to reduce stress and increase relaxation.
- Engage in hobbies or activities you enjoy: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This can include reading, listening to music, spending time in nature, or pursuing creative outlets.
5. Seek Emotional Support:
- Talk to friends and family: Share your feelings and concerns with trusted friends or family members who can provide a listening ear and emotional support.
- Consider seeking professional help: If stress becomes overwhelming or starts affecting your daily life, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.
Remember, self-care and stress management are ongoing practices. Finding what works best for you may involve some trial and error. Prioritize your well-being and make intentional efforts to manage stress effectively throughout your nursing career.
Agustín Arias
8
Answers
Updated
Agustín’s Answer
Hello! This is a very focused and very important reflection. Nursing is distinguished from other health disciplines, since it is a science dedicated to care. Therefore, it is essential that those who decide to follow this career understand that it is not simply another branch of medicine. As a nurse, you will spend a lot of time interacting with patients, which requires great patience. Additionally, although it may seem surprising, nursing is a field in which there is intense competition and sometimes even "ego battles." Therefore, it is crucial to combine a generous heart with the courage necessary to face the challenges that may arise with superiors and colleagues.
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
105
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Jocelyn, some circles are talking more about mental health than others. It is getting a foothold, but not nearly enough. This is about normalizing the conversation because everyone has feelings and emotions, and everyone deals with stress. It is not about having a formal diagnosis or being pigeonholed, right? The very nature of being a student places demands upon you; and if you are also juggling other responsibilities these demands become even more challenging to balance. One thing you can do is talk about it! Make it important (because it is)! Also look for programs or professors who discuss such issues. There is an impact in all helping fields and the fallout from caring for others all day can be huge. Yes, to self-care but what does this mean? It is more than hygiene, sleep, and nutrition. It goes much deeper. It is about your own energy level and having healthy boundaries. It extends to managing your time, finances, and making room for unscheduled down time. Having someone(s) you can talk with regularly like a friend, parent, spiritual advisor, supervisor, or therapist is critical. Having a support system in place and being connected to others is the name of the game! Become very attuned to your own needs. Notice when you start to get more irritated, angry, tired, or your mood is low. Then work to discover the reasons for this- perhaps you are overextending yourself for instance. If possible, make some changes. As a student adopt an attitude of being a learner- you are trying, studying, doing new things, and perfection is not part of this. Perfection comes with time and practice- and I hesitate to use this term at all. Use mistakes or low grades as tools to do something differently. This is how people grow. Check your internal narrative- how do you talk to yourself and what are the feelings that come up for yourself when things go wrong? If your narrative is harsh and mean, this is something to work on. You need to become your biggest fan and being a fan means rolling with the punches and learning how to have a glass half full perspective. It is okay to scale back classes, take a vacation, take a night off from studying. Figure out what you need and meet that need. This is going to look different for every single person, so it is also crucial to keep this in mind. I was one of the last graduate students in my cohort to graduate. I was working at the time and attending school year-round. In taking more courses than usual, I could not do the coursework justice. I had to slow down and go my own pace. My biggest piece of advice is to do this as well. Drop comparisons to other students, seek help when you need it, and give yourself time to do absolutely nothing at all. You've got this!
William Nwaogu
Construction, CAD and BIM
276
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
William’s Answer
Primary means of stress management are:
Get adequate rest.
Take enough water.
Take wholesome meals.
Get adequate exercise.
Other stress management tips include:
Proper planning and personal organization of activities.
Routine medical checkup. Know your health status and get physicians counsel.
Know your limit. No taking up overtime and added roles, if your circumstances does not permit such. Burnout could be dangerous.
Maintain work-life balance
Enjoy wholesome past times.
Vacations and leisure trips.
Self discipline and setting of boundaries.
Get adequate rest.
Take enough water.
Take wholesome meals.
Get adequate exercise.
Other stress management tips include:
Proper planning and personal organization of activities.
Routine medical checkup. Know your health status and get physicians counsel.
Know your limit. No taking up overtime and added roles, if your circumstances does not permit such. Burnout could be dangerous.
Maintain work-life balance
Enjoy wholesome past times.
Vacations and leisure trips.
Self discipline and setting of boundaries.
Davielle Panzullo, M.A., PMP
Warehouse Manager
31
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Davielle’s Answer
Jocelyn, this is a great question!
1. Stay in touch with your friends and family to ensure you have emotional support
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly. Even walking is great to clear your head and refresh you.
3. Eat healthy by packing your lunch and snacks. East fresh fruits and vegetables and try to stay on a routine.
4. Don't smoke.
Many nurses smoke and are overweight. This sounds like a generality, but it is something that you need to be sure you avoid, as it is only going to impact you negatively. You are very smart to be curious and ask the hard questions. Best of luck in your career!
1. Stay in touch with your friends and family to ensure you have emotional support
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly. Even walking is great to clear your head and refresh you.
3. Eat healthy by packing your lunch and snacks. East fresh fruits and vegetables and try to stay on a routine.
4. Don't smoke.
Many nurses smoke and are overweight. This sounds like a generality, but it is something that you need to be sure you avoid, as it is only going to impact you negatively. You are very smart to be curious and ask the hard questions. Best of luck in your career!