Nursing Student Stress Relievers: How do You Keep Your Cool Under Pressure?
So you're thinking about going back to school to get your bachelor's degree in nursing. Whether you earned your RN decades ago or you're newly minted, you know the course work will be challenging. You're aware of the time and money it will take to complete this next step in your training. And yet, you also know you will be eligible for better jobs and a greater earning capacity with a BSN, so you're ready to take the plunge. But now, what about surviving all the stress you'll be under, once you're enrolled and under fire?
You probably recall when you were going for your RN, that nursing students are advised not to work while they're pursuing a degree. However, if you have to work, you will need to juggle your work and study time, not to mention fulfill your other obligations to home and family. Good organizational skills will certainly help you plan for the months ahead so that you can successfully complete your course work.
But you'll also want to take that organizational effort to the next level, by planning how to keep your stress level manageable while you study. Fortunately, thousands of nursing students have been down that road before and have found some tried and true methods that will likely work for you.
Lower Your Stress Levels
Now that you're all pumped up to pursue your BSN, let's talk about how you're going to get through the program without a meltdown. If you have no responsibilities or obligations -- children, home, finances, whatever -- to worry about, good for you. But chances are, you've got some major stressors in your life that will require attention while you're studying. Here are some suggestions that should help you get through it all.
Get plenty of sleep. Sleep is critical to any endeavor, be it study, work, or even getting the most out of recreation. And do be aware, you cannot come to a nursing class in a haze the way you may have gotten through that morning history class long ago. A much greater degree of attention and engagement will be required of you. A few things you can do to improve sleep: cut out caffeine and alcohol in the evening; sleep in a dark room; avoid looking at electronic screens at least an hour prior to bedtime; and keep the sleeping room temperature lower -- no warmer than 70 degrees, and even less if you can handle it.
Eat right. Keep your strength up and you will feel better. Try to eat healthful foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and low-fat protein. Avoid carbs and sweets and the sugar rushes that come with consuming them.
Identify the study habits that work for you, and stick to them. Group study can be very helpful for many students. If you're one of those, do find or start your group early on. Group study can be particularly helpful when preparing for tests. However, for some students, it's better to read course material in a quiet setting where you will absorb it better, and then discuss it with a group later. Avoid groups with students who continuously air their anxieties. Anxiety can be catching.
Avoid procrastination. Although some students swear they can't get motivated to study or do big projects like papers unless they're pushing up against a deadline, you're better off breaking such habits. Start from Day 1 in the classroom, by going over the syllabus and planning how you will complete assignments. This can include arranging for babysitters or asking family and friends for extra help during these push times. Let them know far ahead of the assignment deadline that you will need help.
Don't neglect getting exercise. You may think that you'll be too busy to have time for exercise, but it's important to include daily or at the least three-times-a-week walks, bike rides, or sessions at the gym. This will help you reduce stress by promoting release of endorphins in your body. You'll study better, be more relaxed, and will be better able to maintain your optimism about succeeding.
Calm, Cool, and Collected Now?
Are you ready to take the next step in your nursing career? If you want to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, consider ECPI University for the education you’ll need. For more information on this exciting degree program, connect with a friendly admissions representative today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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