High work demands, fixed-term contracts, threatening environmental and future scenarios, dependence on supervisors or superiors, family planning that is about to begin or has already begun, social isolation - young scientists are exposed to a variety of stressors. Even if the pressures are objectively the same, the stress is experienced differently from person to person. So, why do some people cope better with stress than others? Can resilience be learned? In addition to these questions, this group measure looks at the effects of stress on physical and mental health and shows practical ways of promoting resilience and coping with stress.

 
The actual design of the support measure depends on the needs of the participants.

 

Learning objectives

• Understand how stress develops and how resilience develops
• Learn about and try out stress management strategies
• Identify stressors in everyday scientific life
• Know the effects of stress on health
• Become aware of one's own limits
• Identify and strengthen own resources
• Acquire peer learning techniques to support each other
• Know when and where to look for professional support

 

Methods

Theoretical input, exchange in the plenum, small group exercises, individual exercises, reflection, peer feedback, relaxation techniques, simulations, if desired chat group for blended learning measures

 

Target group

PhD students and postdocs

 

Group size

Max. 12 participants

 

Duration

2 days or as group coaching over several weeks

PhD students have a lot of tasks to fulfill. In part, they are employed by the university and have to fulfill teaching obligations or supervise master's students. On the other hand, they are supposed to take care of their PhD project, which often includes learning new techniques or introducing new methods in the lab. At the same time, they take on some general tasks, such as maintaining equipment, ordering consumables, or organizing workflow. And they are expected to volunteer to organize conferences, meetings, and retreats. Finally, they must be supportive when other graduate students need their expertise.

 
This multi-dimensional task requires a lot. Setting priorities, having discipline, and being able to say "no" are just a few of them.

 

Learning objectives

• Analyze tasks and identify time killers
• Define own goals and steps to achieve them
• Acquire a technique for prioritizing tasks
• Say "no" when necessary without hurting others

 

Target group

Doctoral students, preferably at the beginning of their doctorate

 

Group size

Max. 12 participants

 

Duration

2 days