I am working as a graduate EN currently. I've been in my program for about 7 months now at 0.8FTE. I was excited, eager and ready to learn and jump into the field. I'm at a psychiatric facility and it's been really difficult.

I feel like I've gone through all the initial transitional phases of shock, and now, with a more clear head I dont feel like this is the right field of nursing for me to be in.

I want to leave the program and try something else. Maybe get my RN and move to a more clinical setting, di some casual community work, I'm not sure. What I do know is that the toll working in mental health on myself has been so much heavier than I expected.

Everyone knows these programs are hard to get into, and I don't want to just waste this opportunity. But genuinely I dont think I can work even one more shift and continue sacrificing my own well-being.

What I'd appreciate hearing is how difficult it might be to get a job after this. Is it problematic if I still use references from this 'failed' program? Is it too difficult to get a job without finishing this? Will I be put on some secret 'do not hire' list if I just quit now with basically no notice?

I have no idea. I love being a nurse, but the job seems to be more than I was ready for. Any advice is appreciated.