While gifted PhD candidates often demonstrate advanced cognitive abilities, rapid learning and a deep understanding of their field, they may also experience unique challenges related to perfectionism, motivation, self-esteem, heightened awareness, emotional intensity, and social-emotional adjustment. Gifted individuals may set exceptionally high standards for themselves, leading to potential anxiety and difficulty with self-acceptance. 

What to expect?

As a participant, you decide what topics will be discussed. These can be problems that you are running into and would like advice about from other PhD candidates as well as sharing success stories. Some examples are:

• How do I deal with stress due to perfectionism or fear of failure? 
• How to deal with authority?
• How can I ask my colleague or supervisor for help?
• What to do with boring or easy tasks? 
• How can I regulate my sensitivity and energy in a better way?
• Why do I suffer from procrastination and motivational problems?

The group is guided by Agnes van Rossum and Simone Keijsers.

How to register

• Send an email to phdpsychologist@SEA.leidenuniv.nl with subject line: HB/Gifted PhD peer support group. 
• In your e-mail, briefly explain why this peer group would be beneficial for you. 
• After registration, a short interview will always be scheduled with you first, during which we investigate together whether this group is suitable for you.