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What should I do if I go to school for the career I want, pay money, and pursue a career in Occupational Therapy only to find out I cannot handle it mentally and emotionally??

What should I do if I go to school for the career I want, pay money, and pursue a career in Occupational Therapy only to find out I cannot handle it mentally and emotionally?

therapy occupational-therapy-assistant
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Brian’s Answer

Great question! You should shadow an OT and ask good questions. Find a way to meet professionals and see if it is something you can do for life.

As an OT, there are so many environments where we work you should be able to find your niche and the environment or specialty that is right for you.

Skills developed as an OT can translate to other jobs/careers as well, but you should do what you can to learn about the profession before you begin OT school.
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Kaitlyn’s Answer

That’s a brave question to ask. A lot of people worry about the same thing but keep it to themselves. The truth is, you won’t fully know how the career feels until you are in it. My advice is to take small steps before you commit fully. Shadow an OT. Volunteer in a hospital or clinic. Talk to students already in the program. That will give you a better sense of the daily work and the emotional demands. If you do go through school and later feel it’s too much, it doesn’t mean you failed. Your degree and skills will still open doors. Many people shift into teaching, research, administration, or related health fields. Nothing is wasted. Mental and emotional strength can also grow over time. Support from mentors, therapy, and self-care make a big difference. I’ve seen classmates who doubted themselves in the beginning end up thriving once they found the right setting. So give yourself permission to explore. Prepare the best you can, but know you have options if things change. Your path doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
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Destini’s Answer

Before you apply to OT school, find a place to volunteer or find a therapist to shadow. Ask lots of questions. Volunteer more than once. Also there are many settings to work. Explore some of those options as well to see which fits with your emotional needs. Best of luck
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Kathleen’s Answer

What you're describing is a very real and a difficult situation – and you're definitely not alone in this. Many people (also friends of mine) only realize(d) during their studies or even once they’re already working that their expectations don't/didn't match the reality, or that they're reaching their emotional and mental limits.

Here are some thoughts and possible steps that might help you:
-> Be patient with yourself and accept your situation: Acknowledge that it's okay if something turns out differently than you hoped.
-> Think about what exactly is difficult - Is it the work itself or the environment you're in? Is there anything you still enjoy?
-> Think about possible alternatives such as specializing in less emotionally demanding areas (e.g., administrative work, consulting, research, or teaching in occupational therapy)
-> ask for coaching
-> Share your thoughts and feelings with friends or anybody you trust
-> Be open for change - you might discover a different career/job that suits you better

Good Luck!
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