4 Ways to Maintain Your Mental Health
As a Nursing Student
Image Source: Pixabay
As a nursing student, maintaining mental health can be one of the most overwhelming aspects of seeking higher-level education. Long hours in the classroom, combined with an inevitably hectic clinical schedule, can take a toll on even the strongest individual. With so many competing demands, college students often feel like they need to work on balancing their lives.
It’s also no secret that nurses have one of the highest stress levels among healthcare professionals due to issues such as working long shifts and dealing with life-and-death decisions daily, which only adds to their growing list of worries. The good news is that there are plenty of practice self-care tips for nursing students looking for ways to manage potentially stressful situations while simultaneously protecting and nurturing their mental health. This post will focus on four beneficial approaches.
1. Practice Selfcare
When it comes to staying mentally healthy, there’s no better way than to practice self-care. Making time for yourself each day (even if it’s only 10 minutes) is essential in managing stress and ensuring your mental well-being. Whether you prefer taking a hot bath after a long shift at the hospital or reading an inspiring book before bed, doing something you enjoy is key to maintaining your mental health.
You can also practice self-care by getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and engaging in physical activity. Prioritizing these activities will help you stay energized, motivated, and focused on your academic and professional goals.
2. Connect with Others
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to face the challenges of nursing school alone. Connecting with peers and mentors can help you manage any stress or anxiety that may arise during your studies. CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) can be particularly beneficial as it allows you to work through any personal issues preventing you from excelling in your career.
Reach out to family members, friends, and other healthcare professionals who understand the demands of nursing school. You can also join a student organization, like Nursing Association Student (NAS), which offers support systems for nursing students across the country. Your connections don’t have to be limited to healthcare professionals, either. You can also talk to friends from outside the nursing world who can offer a different perspective on your challenges and help you de-stress.
3. Consider Studying Programs Related to Mental Health
One of the most effective ways to manage your mental health is to equip yourself with the tools and resources necessary to combat stress, anxiety, and other difficulties. Consider enrolling in psychology courses or programs related to mental health, like psychology or social work, which can provide an invaluable resource in understanding how to cope with challenging situations.
Studying online is also an excellent option for busy nursing students who may not have time to take traditional classes. Psych NP online programs, for instance, can be completed at your own pace, giving you the platform and freedom to learn more about mental health while balancing clinical duties. You can also tailor your program to fit your schedule and interests while gaining in-depth mental health knowledge.
4. Take Time for Reflection
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of daily life, especially during nursing school, but it’s important to take a few moments each day for reflection and self-reflection. Ask yourself how you feel, what’s causing your stress and how you can manage it.
Taking the time to understand your emotions and thought processes can help you stay in control of any stressful situations. You can also use reflection as a tool for personal growth. Take stock of what’s going well and where you can improve, and celebrate your successes. Doing so will help you stay motivated and confident throughout the nursing program.
Mental health is an essential component of success in nursing school. By taking the time to practice self-care, connect with others, and study topics related to mental health, you can empower yourself with the necessary tools to manage any stress or anxiety that may arise during your studies. Remember: You don’t have to face these challenges alone; you have support from family, friends, and other healthcare professionals.
