Started as a new grad on nights in ICU 6 months ago. Just got diagnosed with a chronic illness and am having horrible work related anxiety. Is it time for a different specialty? Can burnout happen this fast?

Hospital nursing on any unit these days can be very stressful. If your nurse staffing guidelines are not based on patients' true acuity, I'll wager you are caring for 2-3 patients each shift, not 1-2, with a lot of patient turnover. That's a VERY stressful workload for an ICU nurse who has a lot of experience, much less a new grad. Also, any hospital worth it's weight would have new grads in an extended orientation program on the day shift with a lot of support and resources before starting on nights in an ICU. It's not you, it's the system.

I experienced mini panic attacks for 2 years every time I went to work. Not knowing what you are gonna be facing is terribly stressing. As you become more proficient it gets better. A good team is a big plus, can help you navigate a bad nite. But if your team is not supportive then don’t stay is risky for you and your patient being left alone.

If it is not the right fit for you, yes! Burn out can happen that fast. You’re constantly putting yourself in situations or you just don’t belong. It’s the wrong fit. So many options and nursing don’t be afraid to make a change.