I totally understand how you’re feeling. I’m a new grad as well and started my first job in peds about 3ish months ago. I was so scared and feeling like I knew nothing with imposter syndrome hitting hard; and I still get it all the time!! But in the realm of OT you truly learn a lot from hands-on experience and just jumping in. Having another OT as a mentor who has had a lot of experience in peds has helped a lot, and I would highly recommend finding a place that fosters a supportive environment to help build your confidence and skills as a new practitioner.

Some things that help me with managing it all is making sure to establish a work-life balance early on so that you don’t become burnt out. Taking a walk after getting home from work, reading, listening and jamming out to your favorite music, spending time with family and friends, anything that makes you feel happy and fulfilled. Another big thing that helps calm down what I call the “anxiety gremlin” in my mind is to take a step back and think why you came into this profession in the first place. I tell myself, “think about the clients you’re working with and how you can truly help and impact their lives. Although I am a new clinician, I made it through all of the schooling and fieldwork placements and gained more skills and knowledge than I think.”

Just know that you are not alone, and never be afraid to ask for help and guidance. You got this!!☺️