Question:
Help! Coop makes me super stressed and anxious/depressed.
Any advice to give me to get through this and how did your first coop go?
Response:
Hi there! First of all, I’m sorry to hear that you’re stressed at work and that it’s adding to your anxiety. First co-op is all about learning - and having fun. You’re in a new environment and only have so much knowledge as a first year. Please don’t focus on “doing a good job” - as a first year, they won’t expect you to be a full-fledged pharmacist; but they will appreciate someone who tries their best to learn on the job. Attitude is what really matters during 1st co-op.
My advice would be to continue doing your best, but also taking the time to self-reflect at the end of every work day. I used to write a journal to track what I learned, what my mistakes were, and the things that I was praised for and therefore should continue.
Make sure that your co-op term isn’t just about work. I think that’s what I would have told myself to do with my first co-op experience. I worked in a hospital setting, and it was definitely stressful for me because I kept making the same mistakes frequently. I was so focused on work that it exhausted me mentally, and I didn’t make any time for my friends or family, which added to my low mood. So, in my second co-op, I tried hospital again with a different approach - I took breaks at work, I made sure to go in with the mindset of learning - which actually made me take note of things better. I joined my friends for drinks after work, and spent time with my family. Just remember that you are a student, you’re here to learn, and you are human - make sure to do things that make you happy. Your uplifted mood will actually help you do better at work and be less anxious/strained.
Look forward to your next co-op. I think first co-op for everyone was a hit-or-miss, and it can be due to so many things from the work environment to your relationship with your preceptor. If you don’t like where you work, then it’s a good clue for you to try a different setting that works for you next time. You’re not alone! I hope this helps.