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I am Kilungkuale Nriame a 2nd year GNM student. As a nursing student I am well aware of the stresses in this field. I would like to share my thoughts.
Stress is an inevitable part of life, and as a nursing student, it often becomes even more prevalent. Between classes, clinicals, exams, and patient care, the pressure can feel overwhelming. However, managing stress effectively is not only important for our well-being but also crucial for the care we provide to our patients.
As nursing students, we are preparing to become professionals who serve and support others during their most vulnerable moments. If we struggle to handle our own stress, we may fall short in delivering quality care and emotional support to patients. Patients often look to nurses for reassurance and comfort, especially when they are experiencing stress or anxiety. Therefore, it is vital that we, as future nurses, learn how to manage stressful situations and cultivate a calm, centered state of mind.
The Importance of Stress Management in Nursing
Nursing is both a physically and emotionally demanding profession. High levels of stress can lead to burnout, poor decision-making, and even health issues. Stress doesn’t just impact the nurse; it affects the patients as well. If we cannot cope with stress, we might struggle to meet our patients’ needs effectively. Providing care requires focus, empathy, and clear judgment—qualities that can only be maintained when we take care of ourselves first.
Steps to Overcome Stress
Here are some practical steps that can help nursing students and nurses manage stress effectively:
1. Plan a Daily Relaxation Program
Taking time to relax every day can make a huge difference. Whether it’s practicing meditation, listening to calming music, or simply enjoying some quiet time, a daily relaxation routine helps reduce anxiety and refresh the mind.
2. Establish a Regular Exercise Pattern
Exercise is a proven stress reliever. Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or a fitness class, physical activity releases endorphins, improves mood, and boosts energy levels.
3. Study Assertive Techniques and Learn to Say ‘No’
Nursing students often feel pressured to take on more than they can handle. Learning to say ‘no’ when necessary helps establish healthy boundaries and prevents burnout.
4. Learn to Accept Failures
Failure is a part of learning. Instead of being hard on yourself, view failures as opportunities for growth. Reflect, learn, and move forward with resilience.
5. Accept What Cannot Be Changed
Some situations are beyond our control. Learning to let go and accepting what cannot be changed is a powerful stress-relief tool.
6. Develop Collegiate Support
Building strong relationships with fellow nursing students creates a network of emotional support. Sharing challenges and solutions with peers can help ease stress.
7. Participate in Professional Organizations
Being part of nursing organizations can provide mentorship, resources, and a sense of community that helps combat stress.
8. Seek Counseling
Professional counseling can provide guidance, coping strategies, and a safe space to share feelings without judgment.
Discovering Sudarshan Kriya and Breathing Techniques
One effective method that has helped many people, including nurses, is Sudarshan Kriya—a powerful rhythmic breathing technique taught by the Art of Living Foundation. This technique focuses on regulating the breath to calm the mind and reduce stress. As a nursing student, I have found that practicing Sudarshan Kriya regularly not only lowers my stress but also improves my focus, energy levels, and overall well-being. Meditation and breathing exercises like this are simple yet highly effective tools to help us navigate the challenges of nursing education.
Conclusion
Managing stress as a nursing student is essential to our personal health and professional success. By adopting relaxation techniques, building a supportive network, and exploring practices like Sudarshan Kriya, we can develop the skills needed to cope with stress effectively. As future nurses, we must learn to take care of ourselves first so we can better care for others. Remember, a calm mind and a compassionate heart are the foundations of excellent nursing care.