When on a travel therapy job, you could take up residence anywhere across the country. One of the biggest challenges of the position is the sense of loneliness one might feel when away from family and friends. In a new place with different faces, it's natural to feel isolated, especially during the first few weeks of an assignment. But this feeling doesn't have to stick around. Here are a few ways to ward off loneliness:
Don't dwell on the negative
Instead of listening to teary music or watching sad moves when you feel down, consider how much opportunity you have here. The doors are wide open and there's a whole new landscape to explore. Interact with colleagues on the job, ask a co-worker to grab lunch or call a loved one. You control the experience, so help yourself by concentrating on the good, not the bad.
Stay busy
One of the best ways to distract yourself is to keep busy. If you've always wanted to take yoga classes, wine tasting courses or cooking lessons, this might be the time to start. It'll put you into a room full of other friendly people, helping you socialize and make new friends. Go online or ask colleagues about any clubs, sports or other activities they do, and find something that fits your niche.
Work out
Take the same advice you give your patients and get in some exercise. Regular workouts have been shown to boost mood and reduce anxiety, as they release endorphins – feel-good chemicals – that may turn your day around, according to the Mayo Clinic. Steer clear of the lows with a daily dose of runner's high. Not only will it help you stay busy, it'll also make you stay in shape, something from which self-confidence stems.
Form friendships at work
Besides your patients, your co-workers are the people who you'll spend the most time with. Even if seems intimidating to go out with them, it's truly harmless. More often than not, they are in the same boat as you, going through the same problems. The sooner you get to know them, the quicker you'll form friendships.
Overcoming loneliness may be part of the travel physical therapy process. Remember why you signed up for it in the first place – to live in a new city, with new opportunities and to help others. All of these tips can help you jump the hurdle in no time.