Managing field trip anxiety: Staying confident away from campus

Earlier in the term, the student was invited to participate in a field trip to a different part of the country. Although they were performing well in their studies, the thought of travelling to a new location, being away from their usual accommodation, and interacting socially with peers caused them considerable anxiety. At one point, they even considered not attending, despite the field trip being a compulsory part of the module.

With Brain in Hand

The student used Brain in Hand to plan for the trip and manage their concerns. They mapped out the journey in the diary feature, setting prompts and reminders to make sure they packed everything they needed and arrived on time.

They also accessed their personalised solution packs, which they had set up with their coach earlier in the term. These included strategies for coping with distractions, managing social interactions, and adapting to a new environment.

To maintain their usual routines, the student set reminders to eat well and take medication on time while away from their familiar schedule. On occasions when anxiety rose during the trip, they pressed the on-demand support to speak to a trained responder, receiving guidance and reassurance without needing to involve peers or tutors.

The results

The student was able to approach the field trip with confidence and calm. Planning travel, packing, and daily routines in advance reduced anxiety and helped them feel prepared for the new environment. 

By the end of the trip, the student had fully participated in all activities, met the module requirements, and felt proud of how they handled the experience. They also gained confidence in navigating unfamiliar environments and managing their wellbeing independently, skills they could apply in future academic and professional settings.