Things I did as a shifter over the years~
(Keep in mind this is just based on my personal experiences. Everyone's experiences are different and in their own way valid as no two people are alike.)
Online packs on kik when I was first discovering what and who I was. Ah yes those were chaotic days and many cultish packs were online still back then. Was it always good? No absolutely not. However, I did get to make one very good friend who I'm still in touch with today. Overall not the greatest experiences in the community as a whole though.
Online packs on discord. Again we run into the problem of "is this a safe environment to be in or not?" Which is understandable as strangers online are unpredictable as they are strangers. At the same time there are a few good packs out there. My advice is caution.
Going to a doctor for medical rule out. I made sure to see a doctor regarding the aches and pains I experienced first. I wanted to rule out anything medical it could be caused by. No doctor could explain it. I am perfectly physically healthy.
Researching wolves, werewolves, mythology, everything. I want to continue gain more knowledge and learn and be open to information whether I believe that information or not. Listening is vital. Keeping an open mind is important.
Being judgmental and learning from it. Many times I see people shut down over certain topics. I used to be one of them and noped right out of there. Would not hear what others experience or have to say. Honestly, wish I had been more kinder to folks back in those stubborn headed days. Nowadays I have morals and I try to listen to the best of my capabilities even if I might not agree. Kindness is Important to have in this community and I think a lot of us forget it as we aren't keen on trusting others easily or being open to new things.
Thinking poorly of others beliefs and experiences whether it was them claiming to be a real vampire or cat shifter or therian/otherkin. I was not great in my high school days and I'll own that. I didn't think you could be both shifter and otherkin/therian or that otherkin/therian experiences were BS. I thought the only type of shifters were wolves. I thought many things back then. Hindsight is 20/20. Being kind again goes a long way even if you don't believe or agree with it and if you are open to learning more than there's a lot to learn.
Ignoring red flags and that can cost you your mental health. We'd have people in online packs say they can turn a person just have to meet them, that they can teach you how to shift, that they have "alpha blood" and are far superior, etc. Whatever they said in the past I ignored it as back then I didn't know what I currently know now. Now there are actually natural born leaders but saying you are superior and better than everyone else is overly confident is not great as people change constantly. Evolve constantly, learn, and adapt better and better over time.
Again, all information is based on my own knowledge of being a shifter for years. Being around those who are shifters or supernaturals for years. What may have been my experiences might not be yours. However, I can raise awareness and hopefully help you check yourself. Maybe see things in a new light or appreciate the advice given.