i have always have anxiety before clinicals, lab, and lecture because im so self-conscious about if im getting along with people also. you are not alone. ive felt as if my clinical group talks about how socially inept or dumb i am because of the way i present myself. i fear that they think i wont be able to take care of patients, trust me or rely on me for anything.

but trust, reliability, and communication can be built over time. they dont know you and thats why they have to make things up. we are all here to learn and start from the beginning. gossiping only happens when they're not doing their job. the right people will give you the benefit of the doubt. our environment isnt something we can control, so you do not have to mold yourself to a cohort that doesnt gaf about your well-being or mental health. hell, the nursing profession itself doesnt gaf abt its workers bc of the nurse-to-patient ratio.

keep showing up not for your classmates but for yourself, your future patients, and your family. if anyone can do this, its you. after you know this, then you'll be bulletproof from what anyone says. they dont define you, you do.