The holiday season usually offers a break from school for nursing students, but can we really consider it a “break”? There can be just as many stressors during a holiday break as there are during the semester. Family gatherings, traveling, possible illness, making schedules work, etc. can be daunting. I challenge you to make yourself a priority this holiday season and take care of some things to avoid burnout once the semester starts up again!
Your Health
Take this time off to make sure your health is a priority.
- Make sure your health insurance is up to date.
- Double check that any prescriptions have enough refills left and if not, make the necessary calls.
- Schedule routine healthcare appointments ahead of time so you can be prepared.
- Get a flu shot and a routine physical.
Your Schooling
- Double check that you’re registered for all the necessary classes.
- Check in with your advisor to make sure you’re on track with paperwork.
- Order textbooks and supplies to have them ready for the semester start.
Family Gatherings / Holiday Prep
This is often unavoidable during the holiday break, but hopefully also a highlight for you and your family.
- If you’ve taken care of the above items, hopefully you can use this time to be engaged during gatherings and not worrying about other tasks.
- Gift giving can be stressful so make it simple. Can you get the family a couple of board games to share instead of stressing over separate gifts?
- Understand that holidays can be stressful for others as well. Can you help cook a dish, decorate, or clean?
Make Yourself a Priority
- Take time to do something you really enjoy during the break. Don’t put this off. Spend time catching up with friends, reading that book, etc.
- Schedule a volunteer project that you normally wouldn’t have time for during the semester. Sing carols at the retirement home, help with Toys for Tots, etc.
- If all of the events with friends and family are too much for you, that’s ok. Politely explain that you need some time to relax and recharge your battery.
Most importantly, the holiday season should be a time for you to relax and enjoy time away from stressful school life. Your physical and mental health is just as important as everything you need to get done for school and home life. Make it a priority!
Leigh Chaves is a Student Outreach Coordinator for Aureus Medical Group.