Written By: Ashleigh Comber, 2021-2022 Cohort
Let’s get real: there are times in life when you’re going to feel overwhelmed. Whether it be with work, school, social obligations or just life in general, we all feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed at some point. It’s important to give yourself grace when you have these feelings. Try not to brush them off or push through whatever is causing you to feel anxious – your mental health matters and if you’re feeling the squeeze, understand that you can take a step back.
While the dietetic internship brings so many amazing experiences - during 1,000+ hours of supervised practice everyone is bound to get a little overwhelmed, stressed or anxious. During these times it is so important to recognize and address the stress - your mental health matters! Here are some tips that help me when I am feeling particularly drowned in tasks : )
Step Away
Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is take 20 minutes away from your work.
Take a deep breath, go for a walk or get some cuddles from a furry friend. This will help to lower your stress response and help you to approach tasks with a clear mind!
Make a List of Priorities
List the things you absolutely have to do now and ones that can wait until later
The Snowball Effect - try putting a few of the smaller tasks at the top of the list. These are generally easier to complete and will give you a boost of confidence and motivation to complete the other tasks.
Try the Pomporro Method
This is a time management method where for every 25 min of work you give yourself a 5 min break. After 4 cycles of working, give yourself a longer break.
Youtube has some amazing Pomporro/study music videos that will prompt you when it is time to take your break.
Again it may seem counterintuitive but giving yourself time to reset and rest the brain can help you to be more productive in the long run!
Ask for Help!
Your mental health is always top priority - reach out to your dietetic internship directors for support if you are feeling like it is all too much. They are more than willing to help.
Lean on friends and family to vent or chat things through with.
Be Kind to Yourself
The dietetic internship is no small thing. It is tough to be consistently pushed out of your comfort zone. Take a breath and know that it is okay to feel overwhelmed.
