CNA want to become a nurse--will it be life sucking?

Hello!

This is my first post on this site. I went to school for Psychology and decided to go back to Nursing. I think it's a good fit: service to people, helping people in real ways, using my strong intuition, interacting with people.

I work as a CNA now and have yet to start all of my pre-reqs to apply to school. I like my work. But, it has changed my life not for the better. I injured my back, I have had all sorts of health problems which basically I think manifest as depression (it seems like I am never NOT tired). Every resident and co-worker says I do such a good job and that I am such a sweetheart, so it makes me feel good about what I am doing. But when I come home I feel literally dead inside. Is this the career path for me?

Granted, I am doing all body, not much brain work. I also work in a nursing home which explains itself. I don't want to give up. I know there are so many different opportunities in being a nurse. Eventually I want to teach in a public health setting or something similar. Are there creative/ more academic outlets in nursing?

I AM SCAREEEDD!! Please any feedback would be helpful!!

Thanks!
There are an enormous number of opportunities for experienced nurses with the 'right' background and 'right' education... but it can be a real crap shoot. If you ask nurses who have moved into those very desirable positions, they will probably tell you that a lot of success is due to timing - you have to be in the right place at the right time, with the right background and education.There are no shortcuts. All roads to to those 'great' (non-academic) jobs start with increasing levels of clinical experience - usually requiring advanced specialization and previous experience in positions with higher levels of responsibility. As you have already discovered, those "developmental years" are likely to require jobs that are very labor-intensive and stressful. However . . if you want to focus on academia, the most important factor is just continuing your education. I don't believe that nursing schools are as selective with experience levels.... just go for that PhD as fast as you can. Once you get past your BSN, there are usually grants available for people who are seeking graduate & post-grad education in order to teach nursing.