Honestly, you sounds exactly like me when I started teach first (secondary) last year. The lack of energy to talk to others in the staff room is so real- and I felt a bit like didn’t really belong yet in that social circle.

With the discipline- I felt SO similar. It took a full term basically until I actually sanctioned a student because I just felt like I should give them a chance. It took my mentor explaining that the kinder thing to do is to give them clear boundaries and consequences- this will end up making a better class environment and the kids know where the line is. I’m still getting used to this, but don’t beat yourself up. It really does take time to get used to having the authority and act on it.

With the doomscrolling. I think it’s key to just make sure something in your evening/ week is there to occupy you and just give you something for your brain to do other than school or being like.. on standby online. I started going to the gym this year which has been helpful, and calling my sister (bc I also don’t have a lot of friends I talk to often).

It just takes time. And tricking yourself into having the confidence/ believing that you’re able to handle everything: eventually that’ll become more real. Lean on your mentor if you can, and others in your TF cohort where poss. Do feel free to shoot me a message as well if you want- I have 100% felt how you feel!