Welcome to the Student Nurse Portal
Nursing school is no joke — it’s a whirlwind of clinicals, care plans, exams, and emotional ups and downs. The pressure to succeed while learning how to care for others can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to forget you don’t have to do it alone.
That’s where mentorship comes in. Whether you’re just starting your journey or deep in the trenches, having a guide who’s been there makes all the difference. This portal is here to connect you with experienced nurses who understand the challenges and triumphs of nursing school.
Through support, encouragement, and real-world insight, we’re here to help you stay grounded, grow confidently, and remind you that you are more than capable of becoming the nurse you aspire to be.
~Let’s walk this path together!~
Facts About How Difficult Nursing School Is:
- Nursing School Has One of the Highest Dropout Rates
Studies show that up to 25% of nursing students drop out before graduating. This is often due to the intense academic pressure, long clinical hours, and emotional demands placed on students from day one. - You’re Learning Two Languages at Once
Nursing students must quickly master medical terminology and clinical skills, essentially learning both a new language and a new profession simultaneously. It’s like studying for a science degree and a foreign language at the same time. - Sleep Deprivation Is Common and Sometimes Expected
Many nursing students report getting less than 6 hours of sleep during clinical rotations and finals week. Balancing 12-hour clinical shifts, lectures, exams, and studying leaves very little time for rest, which can take a toll on both mental and physical health.
Disclaimer: Do no get discouraged, there’s so many ways to succeed!
Ways to Combat the Challenges of Nursing School
- Create a Realistic Study Schedule
Break big topics into small chunks and study a little every day. Use tools like flashcards, apps, and study groups. Stick to a routine so you don’t feel overwhelmed before exams. - Prioritize Self-Care and Sleep
Even during busy weeks, aim for at least 6–7 hours of sleep when possible. Fuel your body with healthy food, stay hydrated, and take short mental breaks—this helps your brain retain more information. - Build a Support System
Lean on classmates, join a student nurse group, and talk to mentors or instructors when you feel stuck. Having people who “get it” helps you feel less alone and more motivated to keep going.
🩺 Maine Crisis & Mental Health Support Lines
1. Maine Crisis Line (MCL)
- Phone or text: 1‑888‑568‑1112 (or 988)
- Available 24/7, confidential, free.
- Trained crisis staff assist with mental health crises, suicide risk, emotional distress, and can connect callers to local resources or dispatch mobile crisis response teams if needed. thementalhealthline.org+11Maine+11Maine Maritime Academy+11Maine
2. Intentional Peer Support Warm Line
- Peer-to-peer support line: 1‑866‑771‑WARM (9276) or via 711 Relay
- Available 24/7 for adults in Maine.
- Offers empathetic conversations with trained peer specialists who have lived experience and focus on mutual support and recovery. Maine Maritime Academy+3Maine+3Mental Health Hotline+3
3. NAMI Maine Help Line
- Call 1‑800‑464‑5767 (press 1)
- Available Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4 PM ET.
- Confidential support, education, and advocacy for mental health questions—including support tailored for students and campuses. namimaine.org+3Maine+3rsu16.org+3
4. 211 Maine (Maine-wide Referral Service)
- Dial 2‑1‑1 (or text your ZIP code to 898‑211 or call 1‑866‑811‑5695)
- Open 24/7, multilingual, confidential.
- Connects you to services statewide—including mental health, housing, financial support, food assistance, and more. Excellent for nursing students unsure where to begin. bhpartnersforme.org+11211 Maine+11211 Maine+11UMF+2rsu16.org+2Maine+2
🎓 Additional Campus-Linked Resources for Students in Maine
- University of Maine Counseling Services: On-campus mental health support; UMaine PD can also direct students to crisis lines at 207‑581‑4040 The University of Maine
- University of Southern Maine Counseling: Offers local mental health services and referrals, including Opportunity Alliance crisis services and county-specific lines. Broader resources available for students in the Portland area. University of Southern Maine
- Check with your advisor, all campuses should have a Counseling Center.
Quick Reference Table
| Service Name | Contact Info | Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine Crisis Line (MCL) | 1‑888‑568‑1112 or 988 | 24/7 | Any mental health or crisis |
| Intentional Peer Support Warm Line | 1‑866‑771‑WARM (9276) | 24/7 | Peer-to-peer support & emotional check-ins |
| NAMI Maine Help Line | 1‑800‑464‑5767 (Press 1) | Weekdays, 8 AM–4 PM ET | Info, education, non-crisis support |
| 211 Maine Referral Service | Dial 2‑1‑1 or text/alternate number | 24/7 | Community and practical supports |
🩺National Hotlines for Nursing Students
🧠 Mental Health & Crisis Support
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 – 24/7 free, confidential support for mental health, emotional distress, or suicide crisis. - Crisis Text Line
Text HELLO to 741741 – Free mental health support via text, available 24/7. - National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine
Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text “HelpLine” to 62640 – Weekdays, 10 AM–10 PM ET
Offers mental health guidance and resources for students and families.
📚 Nursing Student Specific Support
- ANA Mentorship Program (American Nurses Association)
www.nursingworld.org → Offers peer mentorship, networking, and student resources. - National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA)
www.nsna.org → While not a hotline, they offer scholarships, educational tools, and peer support networks.
☎️ General Student Support
- SAMHSA National Helpline
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – 24/7 assistance for mental health or substance use issues. Free and confidential.
⚠️ Emergency Reminder
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or at risk of harming themselves or others, please call 911 right away.