ECT can’t switch off the adrenaline

[inthewoods4]

Hi, I’m an ECT1 and started in September feeling pretty calm. However this last week I feel like I can’t switch off this adrenaline that seems to be constantly going around my body. We have a department internal review which meant 3 observations, including by the Head which I think may have triggered this, it’s almost like it’s subconscious because I feel ok mentally - but this inability to relax is starting to upset me. Is this normal at the start, or perhaps it’s because I’m tired and a break over half term might help? I’m really enthusiastic, love the school and the kids, so I don’t regret my choice, just need some reassurance x

Well done, just keep going. You have almost made it to half term. That is a lot of observations!
Please make sure you get a break at half term, it’s a tough term.

Thank you for your kind message. I feel like the other ECTS in my school are so chilled and tell me about their lovely relaxing weekends and I feel so different!

Sounds like you are just conscientious and really care. It’s not forever, try not to be too hard on yourself. You’ve got this!
Don't forget they might be putting on a front.

They haven't just had this department review! It would be entirely normal to feel wired through what sounds like an extremely stressful week (see also Ofsted).

It's also quite normal (although fairly unhealthy) to run on adrenaline during term time and then crash in the holidays. I always end up doing a load of stuff the first couple of days of a holiday and feeling like I can't sit still, then crashing and finding it hard to motivate myself to do anything.