I started my PhD around 8 months ago and I was lucky enough to get the supervisor I wanted given that his expertise and interests overlapped with my research project. The first few months went by fine as I was on top of my work and I regularly met with my supervisor to ensure I was on track, however, I have now reached the point in my project where I need to focus more on the empirical side (I'm using quantitative data). Data analysis has not been my strong suit and so I've been trying to take in a large amount of information in such a short period of time where I feel like I might not be able to succeed. I've lost all confidence in my abilities even though my supervisor assures me that we are on track. I am so scared I may not complete the analyses correctly, or that my supervisors patience will wear thin given my ignorance. The stress is making it impossible for me to focus on my work and I am not sure how I can overcome this. Has anyone gone through a similar experience or have any advice they could off?

Hi this is quite normal. A PhD is training; you are not supposed to have all the answers. You may well make mistakes in the analysis. This is quite normal. Even experienced researchers do this.

If your supervisor tells you are fine, then you are most probably fine

Check in with your GP, health service or counselling service or visit the big white wall to get a bit of support if needed: https://www.bigwhitewall.com/v2/landingUK.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f

Hi,

Don't worry! This is normal... I am a final PhD stupid and sometimes I feel really stupid for research and academic environment. In my case I had the worst PhD time ever... many problems, no support, horrible staff.... horrible but I still like science and this is what makes me move on.
Do not lose your self-confidence this is very important in a PhD students life! I tell you this because my self confidence was ruined during my PhD. I survived and I am about to submit my thesis and I do believe that will be ok!

Dont give up! Keep on going!

Best regards

Johannes

Many thanks for your replies! I was just having one of those days where everything was getting too stressful!