Research and Anxiety

[cookse1]

Hello all,

This is my first post on Grad Cafe, so if there's some protocol that exists that I'm not following...my apologies! I'm a second year history Ph.D. student, am almost through comps (so. very. close.), and have started thinking about my research year, which will take place during my 4th year (though, as we all know, grant applications will need to be done this coming Fall).

Frankly, I'm a nervous wreck over the idea of being abroad doing research for such long stretches of time. I have a generalized anxiety disorder that makes it very difficult to remain in a good, healthy place when away from my routine and support systems for extended periods of time. I would really appreciate any insight anyone has for how to handle long research trips, alternative ways of breaking up research trips throughout the year, ways to approach this conversation with my adviser, etc.

Thank you in advance!

[rising_star]

In general, I would advise doing everything you can to take care of your mental health in advance, so that you're in the best place possible before you go. Depending on where you are, you may be able to keep in touch with your support systems via phone, Skype, FaceTime, etc. You will have to develop a new routine so spend time before you go figuring out what that might look like or how you'll develop it. 

[TMP]

I am a fourth year PhD student who has gone on summer research trips abroad (in Europe).  I definitely struggled with my depression and anxiety abroad-- They didn't get worse or whatsoever but it was a challenge to take care of myself alone.  

What I did do:

1) Kept in touch with my adviser (she's really supportive of my well-being) about my research (accountability too)

2) Maintained contact with close friends and family via Skype/Facebook/etc.  I kept my phone dates with family on a weekly basis.

3) Made sure I had enough supply of medication to cover the time period (at least 3 months)

4) Focused on what I LOVED to do-- research!  I had to repeatedly tell myself that I am changing my environment to get what I want to get- the PhD,  Without this need to go away, my dissertation just can't be completed.

5) Kept up with small routine things like running, reading in Starbucks/coffee shops, wandering around market stalls, eating my favorite food/sweets, whatever I already do at home. 

As for my year abroad in my sixth year, I know I'll have to make sure I get appropriate health insurance.  I'd check with your university and see what's acceptable and start exploring health care professionals in the countries you're thinking of going to.  I don't have much experience in using the country's health insurance in terms of mental health. 

Take note-- medication has to be cleared by customs.  So you may have to deal with the hassle of going to the airport/post office if you have someone mail you your prescriptions.

PM me if you want to talk more!

[Septerra]

Although I do not take medications for anxiety or depression, I do take thyroid medication. If I am not well regulated on my medication, I will also suffer depression and anxiety, as well as many physical side effects. Frankly, the thought of going to Russia for a year of research is quite terrifying when considering their comparatively rudimentary health care system. I also have my levels tested at least twice a year, as they tend to vary with diet and weight, and I just don't know how that will work when I do my research. On top of that, I am a member of the LGBT community and I am very nervous about "going back into the closet," so to speak, and about hiding the true nature of my research to most everyone I meet.

In other words, sorry to make this reply about myself, but I am just saying that I can relate to some of your concerns...

[emmabear]

8 minutes ago, Septerra said:

Although I do not take medications for anxiety or depression, I do take thyroid medication. If I am not well regulated on my medication, I will also suffer depression and anxiety, as well as many physical side effects. Frankly, the thought of going to Russia for a year of research is quite terrifying when considering their comparatively rudimentary health care system. I also have my levels tested at least twice a year, as they tend to vary with diet and weight, and I just don't know how that will work when I do my research. On top of that, I am a member of the LGBT community and I am very nervous about "going back into the closet," so to speak, and about hiding the true nature of my research to most everyone I meet.

In other words, sorry to make this reply about myself, but I am just saying that I can relate to some of your concerns...

If you go to St-P I can recommend an endocrinologist, PM me if needed:)