Fear of returning to work

Anonymous

Fear of returning to work

Im just wondering if anyone has been through anything similar.
I was working in a job for 18 months that was awful! It caused immense anxiety and completely destroyed my mental health. I dropped my shift to one a week and I would still have panic attacks daily thinking about going to that one shift. The anxiety was crippling and I was heavily medicated to the point of sedation where I couldn't work anyway. Fast forward a year since I quit and I am anxiety/medication free and I am happy! Thankfully my partner has been able to support us without the need for second income but he has since started a new job which whilst will pay the bills (just) it won't give us any play room and we want to get married. I keep contemplating finding another job but the idea literally terrifies me! What if I hate it? What if it stresses me to the point of another break down? What if its too much and im not ready?
Honestly I feel traumatised by my experience and feel incredibly guilty that im not contributing. I am raising young children but I could definitely work night's. This is literally the only thing that triggers my anxiety now. I dont want to go back to that horrible feeling again. Im terrified. I feel like in the right job I would be fine (I loved my job prior but is no longer operational) but the unknown freaks me out and puts me off applying for anything.

Posted in:  Mental Health, Anxiety & Depression, Money

2 Replies

Anonymous

Yes, I’ve felt that way.
I’ve managed to fall in to a couple of smaller very part time jobs that have helped me gain some confidence back.

Personally I’d look it at as a good time to look for work while you still have some kind of safety net. Maybe look for something very part time with potential to take on more hours later.

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Anonymous

How about a different perspective- this isn’t your old job this will be a new job.. so what if you love it! What if it fulfils you and gives you new purpose? What if it’s affords you more in life amd you can get married sooner, have less or no financial stress. You could meet new people and benefit socially. You will contribute to your superannuation and pave the way for a comfortable retirement. And finally, if you do t like you can always leave, you are not stuck there you can leave of you want to. All of these things are also good for a positive metal state. Give it a go knowing it’s not permanent if you do t want it to be. Good luck!

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