Nursing school is a demanding journey that requires dedication, resilience, and a commitment to learning.
As aspiring nurses navigate rigorous coursework, clinical rotations, and the pressure to excel, the toll on mental wellbeing can be significant. It's crucial for nursing students to proactively manage stress and prioritize their mental wellness to ensure a fulfilling academic experience.
In this article, we’ll explore four effective strategies to cope with the challenges of nursing school, fostering a balance between academics and mental health.
Nursing Programs and Mental Health
The journey through nursing school exposes students to a challenging terrain that significantly impacts mental health. While all nursing programs demand resilience, certain programs are known for their rigorous curriculum and demanding pace.
Examples of such programs include the BSN to MSN programs with specializations like nurse anesthetist (CRNA), BSN to MSN-FNP programs, and nurse leadership. FNP programs involve the completion of a BSN followed by an advanced MSN with a focus on family nurse practitioners.
The journey through nurse leadership degrees within BSN to MSN programs is characterized by a shift in focus from clinical expertise to managerial skills. Nurses pursuing leadership roles must navigate a curriculum that equips them with the knowledge to lead and manage healthcare teams effectively.
The dual demands of clinical excellence and administrative acumen can be mentally taxing, impacting the wellbeing of those aspiring to take on leadership positions.
Keep reading to discover four ways to safeguard your mental wellbeing during these demanding programs.
1. Establish a Realistic Schedule
Creating a realistic schedule is the cornerstone of effective time management in nursing school. Arrange tasks in order of priority and deadlines. Make time for studying, taking classes, and internships, and remember to take breaks to avoid burnout.
Remember that adaptability is essential since unforeseen obstacles may develop. To manage your schedule and make reasonable daily goals, use tools such as planners or digital productivity apps.
2. Engage in Regular Self-Care
Nursing school's demanding nature makes self-care practices indispensable for maintaining mental and physical wellbeing. Be sure to incorporate regular exercise into your routine, as it has proven benefits for stress reduction and overall health.
Research shows that sleep deprivation can impair intellectual functioning, academic accomplishment, creative activities, and workplace productivity. The cognitive effects of poor sleep can also pose safety issues, such as sleepiness while driving. Make sleep a priority to promote cognitive function and emotional resiliency.
Incorporate awareness and relaxation strategies into your daily life, such as mindfulness or breathing exercises. Taking breaks to engage in activities you enjoy can recharge your energy and contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling nursing school experience.
Journaling can also be a therapeutic outlet for expressing and processing emotions. Recognize the early signs of stress and address them promptly. By cultivating a toolbox of self-care practices, you empower yourself to approach challenges with a calmer and more composed mindset.
3. Build a Supportive Network
In the challenging landscape of nursing education, a strong support network can make a significant difference. Connect with classmates who understand the unique demands of nursing school, forming study groups to share knowledge and experiences. Build relationships with professors and seek their guidance when needed.
Having a supportive community fosters a sense of belonging and reduces the feelings of isolation that can accompany the intensity of nursing school.
4. Recognize Signs of Poor Mental Wellbeing
Vigilance is key when it comes to recognizing signs of poor mental wellbeing. Be attentive to persistent fatigue, changes in mood, and a decline in academic performance.
If you notice these signs, take proactive steps to address your mental health. Consider adjusting your workload, seeking support from mental health professionals, or discussing your concerns with academic advisors.
Be sure to download our free Understanding Your Mental Wellbeing Workbook for a detailed overview of signs of poor mental wellbeing.
Summary
The path through nursing school is both demanding and rewarding. Navigating specialized programs requires resilience, time management, and a commitment to mental wellbeing.
By incorporating realistic schedules, embracing self-care practices, and fostering a supportive community, students can thrive academically.
As future healthcare professionals, prioritizing mental wellbeing ensures academic excellence and a foundation for a fulfilling career.
Self-Guided Support for Anxiety and Low Mood
Research shows that self-help materials are often enough for people to overcome mild to moderate mental health difficulties without professional support.
If you’re interested in a self-guided program that includes tools from CBT, DBT, ACT and more, be sure to check out The Mental Wellbeing Toolkit. It's "like 10 therapy sessions in one."
