Hi,
I started my PhD last Tuesday, after finishing my Masters last Monday (yeah, zero gap!) and I have been STRUGGLING to cope, to the point I'm already seeking counselling and considering my option if I quit.
Does anyone had any advice? I'm struggling to cope with the lack of structure, of knowing (or not knowing) whats expected of me and with the prospect that this might take over my life, when I really don't want it to.
I also have that world-famous, constant feeling that I have no idea what the hell I'm doing, but does anyone also have advice for dealing with this? I'm terrified to start lab work, terrified of having no experimental design, or even things as simple as working the machines or thinking of an appropriate experiment, and my supervisor wants lab work to start within the month.
I've spoken with admin/pastoral care and we all agreed I need a holiday (yet to talk to supervisor), especially with taking no break between MSc and PhD, but I'm scared that I'll just feel as terrible when I come back off leave.
I'm debating whether I've come onto a PhD for the right reasons, I can't even think of the reasons I wanted a PhD in the first place anymore.
TAKE A HOLIDAY!!!
You have just finished your Masters and the stress of submitting the Master's thesis is hard. I had a friend in the same position, who didn't take a holiday and got massive burnout. Your supervisor should understand this and taking 1-2 weeks out now won't matter. But it gives you a chance to recharge and "have a life". Taking it now also allows you to relax without knowing what you are missing. That ability to forget your PhD is lovely (I miss it)
You might come back felling better or felling worse but I can assure you that you won't feel better by slogging through. Don't waste this opportunity because you were too stubborn to take a holiday.
Agree with kenziebob, no reason to feel ashamed. Most people take a break before a PhD and you are no exception.
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