Wanting to leave my TAFE course
Hey yall,
im here because i need advice, im 16 years old and i dropped out of year 10 at the end of the year last year, i decided to do a early childhood course, i didn’t think it’ll be that much but it is, im suffering with severe panic attacks and anxiety attacks and I don’t feel like i belong since they are much older no one barley talks to me no more and it makes me more anxious, now with the work I cannot do it all, every unit there’s 3 assignments one quiz, one project and one portfolio and the portfolio is what stuffs me up and then there’s work placement , Ive been currently really sick for the past 4 days so should I tell my mum to tell them that I would not be coming back?.
Comments
Hey @Turquoise_Duck welcome to the forums 🙂
It sounds like you're going through a really tough time with your mental health and TAFE. It makes sense that at this moment of time, the idea of so many assessments, projects and placement is overwhelming. The severe panic attacks and anxiety attacks on top of this are a lot to bear, and it's definitely not uncommon for the stress and overwhelm that you're feeling to manifest in this way.
The decision to leave your TAFE course is a big one and it's sometimes hard to know if it's right for you. I wanted to link you to an article we have on dropping out of tertiary studies. It asks a number of questions like considering the positives, negatives and consequences of dropping out, as well as whether there is anything you can change about the situation. Another question that might be worth asking is whether there is anything else you might do instead of studying, like changing your course or working. Have you been able to start considering any of these options?
It could also help to talk to someone about your anxiety or panic attacks. We have an article here on panic attacks that could be a helpful start. Headspace can give you in-person, phone or online mental health sessions and may be able to support your mental health while you study. Another great option is Kids Helpline who offer phone and webchat support 24/7. One of these options might help you with the symptoms of what you're experiencing and even give suggestions around study. In addition, sometimes course convenors or teachers can point you in the direction of support or give you adjustments in your studies. It also sounds like your mum is a support for you, so would it be possible to discuss some of these concerns with her?
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts 😊
I am sorry to hear that you are feeling anxious - it sounds like your course is quite intensive. I just wanted to ask what coping/organisation strategies have you used in the past and whether your course allows you to defer (or at least give you an extension on some of the tasks - given that you're currently sick). I was also wondering whether you are enjoying the content itself and working with children as this may also impact your decision. Either way, being able to be attuned to your own mental health and identify the cause of your stress is also very important, so I commend you on your self-awareness. It is also important to prioritise your own mental and physical health first so I would encourage you to keep this in mind! I know this response hasn't given you any direct advice but I hope it may provide some points to reflect on.
Wishing you ALL the best,
Sprouting_Flowers
