STEM in Therapy
Science, Technology, Engineering, and MathematicsWelcome!
STEM in therapy? This idea can seem like a foreign concept in the field. It’s been a while since I was employed as a computer scientist, but my memory isn’t horrible. During that time, I do not recall one meeting with my team or as a company when we discussed our feelings or emotions. As the only female on my team, I wasn’t about to open up that can of worms.
I witnessed frustration, anger, more than one raised voice, a fair amount of 4-letter words, and an incredible amount of alcohol consumption … but just like baseball, there’s no crying in tech.
STEM Culture
Below lists 5 ways STEM culture can contribute to struggles with your thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
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- Emphasis on productivity and output over well-being, leading to overwork and burnout.
- Difficulty taking breaks and prioritizing self-care due to long work hours and high demands.
- Culture of perfectionism and fear of failure, leading to increased stress and anxiety.
- Lack of support for mental health and stigma surrounding seeking help.
- Isolation and lack of connection due to the nature of the work and focus on individual contributions.
Impact of Work Stress on Mental Health
Stress can lead to emotional and physical struggles. Below lists 5 ways work-related stress can impact the health of those in STEM.
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- Physical Symptoms: Stress can cause physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue.
- Anxiety and Depression: Engineers who experience chronic stress may be at greater risk for developing anxiety and depression.
- Burnout: Excessive stress and workload can lead to burnout, which is characterized by emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and decreased productivity.
- Impaired Decision-Making: Chronic stress can impair cognitive function, including decision-making abilities.
- Impaired Relationships: Chronic stress can also impact relationships with colleagues, friends, and family, potentially leading to social isolation and further stress.
Give me a call … or an email, or a text
If you are a STEM professional struggling with the stresses of your profession, Dr. Guess is here to help. Contact me today to learn more about therapy and how it can benefit you.
Some of my Blog Posts
4 Reasons Engineers May Struggle in Therapy
Engineers in therapy may face challenges when seeking mental health support and finding a provider who understands their perspective.
Healthy Work Boundaries for Engineers: 5 Tips
Learn how engineers can set boundaries in the workplace to prioritize their mental and physical health.