Asking for Help

One of the hardest parts of a career pivot isn't research, school, or the job hunt — it's the pressure to figure it out on your own.

Dealing with Isolation, Burnout, and Imposter Syndrome

When people think about a career change, the focus is usually on the goal-setting, the big leap, the push toward something new. But rarely does anyone talk about the real emotional challenges, the isolation, or the uncertainty that comes with it. It's when burnout and impostor syndrome creep in, and you wonder if you've made a huge mistake.

If you've been in the workforce for a while, it may feel jarring watching your peers move ahead faster and thrive in their careers while you're finding your footing in a new field, like you've hit reset on your life. But you don't need to figure it out all on your own. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness — it's strategic.

Where to Start Looking for Support

1. Mental Health Professionals

Sometimes, talking to a professional is the best thing you can do. Websites like First Session let you search for therapists in Canada based on specialization, location, and designation. You can even browse intro videos before booking an appointment. While therapy in B.C. can range from $140 to $250 per session, many therapists offer free consultations or sliding scale rates.

If you're currently employed, check your benefits to see what kinds of mental health services are covered (e.g., psychologists, registered clinical counsellors, social workers). Some workplaces also offer immediate, short-term sessions through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Students should check if counselling is included in their tuition — many post-secondary schools offer free or low-cost mental health support.

2. Career Counselling

Career counsellors can help you explore career paths, identify strengths and interests, build job search skills, and navigate difficult decisions. If you have health coverage, look for professionals with credentials like RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor) or psychologist designations (career coaches may not be covered). It's not just about resumes and interview practice, but also about feeling less alone in the process.

3. College Career Advising

Many colleges and universities offer free career advising — not just for current students, but often for alumni too. Local schools like UBC, Emily Carr, and Douglas College have surprisingly robust services, including one-on-one appointments, resume and cover letter support, interview preparation, workshops, job boards, and connections to industry contacts.

4. Non-therapy Support

Sometimes the best help is just... talking to people who get it. Local meetups, industry-specific networking events, and non-profit organizations can be great ways to connect with people in your new field. And it doesn't have to be expensive or formal — even casual conversations can give you clarity, encouragement, and advice for next steps.

5. Exercise and Mindfulness

Anxiety and stress aren't just in your head. Moving your body and taking breaks can help you reset — whether it's weights, cardio, stretching, or even just walking. Mindfulness and meditation don't have to mean a full yoga class either. Journaling, quick breathing exercises, or just a short break from your screen can help ground you during moments of doubt and overwhelm.

(Personal note: 10/10 would recommend punching a heavy bag after a rough week of mid-terms.)

Normalize Asking for Help

I won't lie — no matter how much you prepare, the "I'm behind" feelings may still pop up. But it's about balancing what you can control and accepting what you can't. It's so easy to feel like you're falling behind, like you're making things harder for yourself when you could have stayed on a familiar, steady path.

But that doesn't mean you're not strong enough. Because you deserve support that fits your needs, and learning how to navigate your next steps emotionally is part of the journey, too.

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