Isolation/Lack of Supports

No matter who you are, having people you can count on for support helps in new situations.  When  you go away on a clinical or internship, you may not have easy access to the people you most trust/value.  If you don't typically struggle to make connections, you may be surprised by suddenly feeling like you don't quite fit.  

Strange Settings Can Bring Strange Feelings

Sometimes confidence can reduce when you're in a new situation. It may be something you plan for, but if you've never really felt like connecting to people was difficult for you, you may not know what to do.  

Feelings you can experience

• Lonely                                                                                       

• Distrust

• Agitated

• Anxious

• Withdrawn

• Frustrated

• Judged

• Unsupported

• Confused

What can you do if you feel any of the above?

• Take some deep breathes: Slow, deep breaths will help calm you down and help you think a bit more clearly.  

• Follow your gut - You don't have to be friends with everyone.  Is there anyone you get a good feeling about, or a feeling that they may be a good connection to make?  Focus on the ones that feel right.  

• Join in - The best way to meet people is to find a group that loves what you do and join. Like yoga?  Find a class.  Enjoy music?  Find an outlet.  Is there a church community that fits for you?  Does the organization where you are placed have any group activities that you can join?

• Ask for help - If you notice that you feel unsure, anxious, or sad, talk to someone.  If you don't feel connected to anyone in your placement, reach out to your school adviser, family, friends or even a counselor. 

• Stay connected to your people - You already have friends, family, people that you care about and that care about you.  Stay connected to them.  Make a real connection to people, not only through text.  Hearing the voice and/or seeing the face of someone you care about will help you feel better. 

• Do things you love - Even if you start to feel unmotivated, try to keep doing things you love.  Listen to your favorite music, read, go for a hike, run, go to an animal shelter and visit some animals.  Whatever activities you enjoy, keep doing them. 

What If I Feel Like I'm Struggling More Than I Should?

If you feel like you are losing control, can't think or focus, feel anxious all the time or depressed and isolated, seek out help.  Your student insurance will cover counseling sessions outside of campus.  If you need help figuring out where to go or how to access, you are welcome to contact the Husson  Counseling Center and they will do what they can to help you connect to someone in your area.  If you are not comfortable contacting the Counseling Center, you can contact your insurance provider directly either on-line or by phone and they can help.  You may also contact your Husson placement supervisor to help you explore options for support.