5 Tips to Secure Your Mental Health as a Nursing Student

Juggling classes, clinicals, and mountains of coursework – nursing school is no walk in the park. While you’re busy mastering the art of patient care, it’s easy to let your mental health fall by the wayside.

In this blog, we will share tips to help you manage the emotional of nursing school. We’ll explore 5 key strategies to keep your mental health in check, from building a support system to mastering the art of the well-deserved break. 

Take a deep breath, and let’s look into keeping you sane throughout your nursing journey.

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Nursing school throws a lot at you. Between complex medical terminology, intricate procedures, and seemingly endless exams, confusion is bound to happen. The good news? You’re not expected to be a walking medical encyclopaedia – yet. The key to staying afloat is embracing the power of the question.

Think of it this way: No one is a mind-reader, especially not your instructors. They can’t address what they don’t know you’re struggling with. A well-placed question can clear up a mountain of doubt and make a world of difference in your understanding.

But where do you start with your inquiries? The answer: everywhere! Don’t be afraid to ask your instructors during lectures, labs, or office hours. Your classmates can be a great resource too – study groups are a fantastic opportunity to bounce questions off each other and test your knowledge. 

You can also tap into the wisdom of seniors or even past graduates. They’ve been through the trenches and likely have some golden nuggets of advice to share.

2. Take Breaks

Nursing school is a marathon, not a sprint. Constant studying and pressure can lead to burnout, making it even harder to retain information. Taking time away from the textbooks and flashcards isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a strategic move for success.

Why Are Breaks So Important?

• Boost Brainpower: Information overload is real. Short breaks help your brain refresh and refocus, allowing you to come back to your studies with renewed energy and sharper concentration.
• Combat Stress: Feeling overwhelmed? A well-timed break can do wonders for reducing stress hormones and calming your nerves.
• Improve Overall Well Being: Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is crucial. Breaks allow you to get some exercise, see a movie, grab a healthy snack, or simply unwind, all of which contribute to your overall well-being.

3. Mind Your Friends

Nursing school can be an intense experience, and the people you surround yourself with can make a world of difference. The right friends can be your greatest asset in nursing school. Look for classmates who share your goals and motivation. These are the people who will:

• Encourage You: They’ll be your cheerleaders, lifting you up when things get tough and celebrating your achievements.
• Challenge You: They’ll push you to be your best, holding you accountable for your studies and helping you reach your full potential.
• Offer Support: They’ll be there to lend a listening ear, offer a shoulder to cry on, or simply commiserate when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

On the other hand, surrounding yourself with negative friends can be detrimental to your mental health and academic success. Here’s what to watch out for:

• The Complainers: Avoid friends who constantly complain or bring negativity to the table. Their pessimism can be contagious and make a challenging situation even worse.
• The Slackers: Friends who prioritise partying over studying can be a bad influence. While it’s okay to have fun occasionally, you need people who understand the importance of hard work and dedication.
• The Drama Queens: Nursing school is stressful enough without adding unnecessary drama. Steer clear of friends who create conflict or gossip.

4. Leverage Family Support and Positive Affirmations

Nursing school is a demanding journey, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Regularly communicate with your family. Share your struggles, anxieties, and successes. Talking it out can be incredibly therapeutic and help you feel understood and supported.

Sometimes, all you need is a shoulder to cry on or a warm hug from a loved one. Don’t underestimate the power of physical affection and emotional support from your family.

Additionally, positive affirmations train your brain to focus on your strengths and capabilities. The more you tell yourself you can do it, the more likely you are to believe it and achieve it. Begin each day with a positive affirmation ritual. Remind yourself of your worth, your intelligence, and your ability to succeed. This sets a positive tone for the day and helps you approach challenges with confidence.

5. Stay Out of Trouble

Let’s face it, nursing school is demanding enough without adding unnecessary stress. Strictly following the rules and avoiding trouble can make a huge difference in your mental well-being.

Here’s why staying out of trouble is a win for your mental health:

• Reduced Stress: Getting into trouble means facing consequences, which can be a major source of stress. Avoiding situations that could lead to disciplinary action keeps your mind clear and allows you to focus on your studies.
• Positive Relationships with Faculty: Professors and instructors appreciate students who follow the rules and show respect. Maintaining a positive rapport with faculty can make your learning experience smoother and can even be helpful when seeking recommendations or guidance down the line.
• More Time for What Matters: Dealing with disciplinary actions takes time and energy. Staying out of trouble frees up your schedule and mental space to focus on your studies, participate in extracurricular activities you enjoy, and get the rest and relaxation you need to succeed.

How Do You Stay out of Trouble?

It’s all about following the guidelines set by your school. Here are some ways:

• Know the Rules: Familiarise yourself with the student code of conduct and school policies. This includes dress code regulations, attendance requirements, and expectations for behaviour on campus and during clinical rotations.
• Respect the Dress Code: Whether it’s a uniform or general guidelines for professional attire, adhering to the dress code shows respect for your program and helps you maintain a professional demeanour.
• Attend Mandatory Activities: Classes, labs, and clinical rotations are all crucial for your education. Skipping out might seem tempting sometimes, but it can lead to disciplinary action and put you behind in your studies.
• Communicate Effectively: If you have a question about a rule or policy, don’t hesitate to reach out to a faculty advisor or student services. Clear communication can often prevent misunderstandings and potential trouble.

Final Thoughts

Juggling academics, clinicals, and the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming. But remember, you’re not alone. By incorporating these 5 tips, you can navigate your nursing school journey with a healthy mind and spirit. 

Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and remember to take care of yourself throughout this exciting experience. With a healthy mind and a supportive network, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a fantastic nurse, ready to make a positive impact on the world.