If you are attending ADAA's Annual Conference for the first time, welcome. With over 1,200 attendees expected and more than 150 engaging sessions anticipated, events, and networking opportunities, it could be easy to be overwhelmed. But we are here to help combat that feeling with a few helpful tips to make the most of your time!  And, don't forget - everyone was a new attendee at some point - me included!

Pace Yourself

Don't feel like you must see and do everything - you can't. Look at the available sessions in each time block and prioritize those sessions you wish to participate in live, whether that is for the potential audience engagement or the Q&A opportunity. ADAA will be offering a limited number of sessions in a recorded format following the conference. Think about which sessions you may be able to watch virtually to free up time during the live event.

It's Not Just a Conference. It's Your Community

ADAA's Annual Conference offers a variety of exciting networking opportunities so you can catch up with your friends and meet new colleagues. Plan to stay over Saturday night and attend the awards ceremony event to celebrate your colleagues' accomplishments. Throughout the conference, many ADAA Special Interest Groups host events allowing you to network with your colleagues who share similar specialties or interests. For first-time attendees specifically, plan to attend the first-time attendee breakfast to get to know each other and a little bit more about ADAA. And, for early career professionals and students, make sure you join the Early Career Professionals and Students Luncheon for an opportunity to connect with senior clinicians and researchers as well as other newcomers.

Don't be shy. Introduce yourself to other attendees, ADAA leadership, and ADAA staff - they are looking forward to meeting you. Make sure to check out the ribbon board where you can add first-time attendee or new member ribbons to your badge. These make for easy conversation starters!

Another great way to get involved and connect with colleagues is to tweet about your experiences!

Support the Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals

Poster sessions often feature students and early career professionals sharing and discussing their research and ideas for clinical innovation. Planning ahead to stay for the poster session and engaging with these younger professionals is a great way to support the future of the mental health community. Input and guidance from more senior colleagues help to further develop these ideas and research opportunities.

Remember Self-Care

Remember to drink plenty of water, rest when you need to, and make sure to recharge. Take a coffee break and chat with other attendees or take a quick walk outside for some fresh air.

HAVE FUN!

Make the most of your time! If you have any questions or run into any issues, ask any ADAA staff member for help! They want to know you and want to help ensure you have a great experience.

And, if you aren't an ADAA member yet, let us tell you all about the many benefits that you will have access to when you join. We want you to stay involved with ADAA long after your first conference ends. Make ADAA your new professional home!