topic Re: Returned to work in Anxiety

Returned to work

blues23 — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:49:33 GMT

I’ve been on work cover for around 10/11 months due to work place injury, bullying, assault and numerous other things happend I’ve been sent to a new location ( temporarily) while I adjust to returning to work , today was first day back It was hard I was lumped in a role I’ve never done ( receptionist) Recived no training just answer phones take notes which is way stressing when I don’t know clients procedures or even the telephone systems or who to ask for help no one was available despite me asking numerous times for help . I can’t say how I felt after leaving work all of 3 hours work left me sweating profusely and literally panicked state of mind then to top it off I got a snarky email from my nasty return to work co ordinator due to apparently me missing something in a timesheet I submitted and that was my fault given I’ve never had to do timesheets and again no one was around to assist me to complete these tasks . My dad says I should quit and after today I feel I should I I’mvery overwhelmed by today’s awful work day and told my new boss that too . I dread going into work tomorrow , how do others deal with returning to work after long absence and mental health problems I have anxiety and depression Re what happened at my original work site yes I am requesting a new return to work co ordinator

Re: Returned to work

Mark Z. — Thu, 11 May 2023 19:03:57 GMT

Hi Blue23,

Thank you for sharing your story. I'm sorry to hear that you are going through a challenging time, returning to work after a long-term absence can be quite difficult.

Based on your description, it seems that your company's management could be more supportive. While they have taken steps to accommodate you, such as relocating you to another site and assigning non-physical work to prevent further injury and aid in recovery, it's crucial that they also help you adapt to your current temporary work arrangement.

Since you have already requested assistance multiple times, I recommend escalating the matter to your Human Resources department. They understand the importance of providing genuine support for employees returning to work, as failure to do so may put the company at legal risk.

Additionally, you may want to consider your father's suggestion of seeking a job that better suits your needs. It's unlikely that your current employer will be able to make significant improvements in management quality within a short time frame, even if some team members are willing to do so. If you decide to pursue a new job, now would be an ideal time to start planning for your future and preparing for interviews. Be patient, be sure to look for roles that are less demanding in order to minimize stress.

Wish you the best in your endeavors. Remember, things can and will get better.
Mark

Re: Returned to work

Summer Rose — Fri, 12 May 2023 10:27:19 GMT

Hi blues23

So sorry to hear about your workplace injuries. I want to congratulate you on your attempt to return to work. I know it’s a challenge, particularly as you received a shocking lack of support.

I’m glad that you’ve communicated your concerns in the workplace, but please also ensure that your company’s insurer knows what happened. The insurer wants you back to work (to reduce its costs) safely (to avoid additional claim costs) and will remind your employer of its obligations.

I wouldn’t quit without knowing what will happen to your claim, as you are not yet ready for full time work and you may struggle to find suitable employment and your medical expenses could continue into the future.

See if you can give it a week. Fill the timesheet out carefully and make sure there is a paper trail of any concerns you have. (I would be asking for training as a minimum.) I say this from my experience as an employer because you also have an obligation to return to work in good faith and if you don’t do this your employer can take action against you. I realise this isn’t what’s happening here but you don’t want to give your employer any ammunition to use against you.

If the situation has not improved in a week reach out the insurance case manager and ask them to facilitate a meeting with your employer.

Good luck.

Kind thoughts to you

Return to work

blues23 — Thu, 25 May 2023 02:21:48 GMT

It’s my 2nd week back so many people are asking me questions why am I at this work place and not the previous work site ( I was bullied injured ect ect ) been on work cover for 11 months and was at the original site for 11 months . I’m getting questions of how & why and was it this and that it’s frankly becoming quite annoying I can’t discuss what happened to me as it’s confidential and if I discuss it it will spread like wildfire and I’m in no way wanting more drama than I already have returning to work it’s quite hard these employees know nothing of what I feel having to be questioned like I have and stuff it’s like I can’t tell u so why ask it may be curious or gossip festing on the staff’s behalf but I still can’t say anything no matter how much they badger me . How do I handle this as it’s becoming a thing this questions and I’m like I can’t even discuss it so not sure how to go about it really.

Re: Return to work

Emotions26 — Thu, 25 May 2023 05:46:06 GMT

Hello blues23

Your post caught my attention by surprise.

Possibly I was drawn to your words as I have also been subjected to workplace bullying and more.

It is an horrendous journey where the so called areas of support can only serve to add to the trauma in my case.

I hope that you have some ongoing support outside of workcover for the trauma incurred from your experiences. Request a referral from your personal gp not workcover.

You are extremely brave and courageous returning to work whether by choice or not.

I have read that this treatment is rampant across most workforces in areas you and I would not believe.

Is your manager aware of your confidential situation and circumstances? Have they communicated to all staff that you are returning to work after recovering and rehabilitating from a medical condition?

That is all that needs to and should be disclosed. Nothing more? The subject is not to be brought up.

Do not discuss the reasons why with anyone. Not even your manager.

If someone befriends you and tries to find out. Reply with thank you for asking but I am focussing on my continuing to feel better and moving forward. I choose not to think about the past.

A medical letter should be sent to your manager or management higher stating only that you are now deemed fit to return to work after recovering and rehabilitating from a medical condition.

Make an appointment with your personal gp and explain what is now happening and that you need a letter addressed to the management of your company saying exactly the above and that all staff are to be informed.

In order for you to be able to perform your duties to the best of your ability and in the interests of all other staff members and management your medical condition is not to be questioned. Thank you for respecting these requirements.

They would be familiar with this scenario and may have better suggestions.

Management do have to be accountable and the behaviour of staff as a whole is unacceptable.

Everything that you feel is valid and do not allow yourself to go down the path of questioning you.

You are showing up. You have rights as a human being apart from an employee.

There should also be human resources or a person who handles this kind of treatment.

This is a start.

Then try to sort out the sincere people from the troublemakers without being noticed.

They are there. Probably hiding.

I will follow your post should you

Lastly well done in landing here and writing about this.

Many cannot face this.

You have great strength and you will find a way to get through this.

Re: Return to work

blues23 — Thu, 25 May 2023 08:56:10 GMT

Hi Emotions

thank you for your reply and advise I will definitely discuss it with my GP I did discuss it today with my new manager but she just shrugged her shoulders I don’t entirely know what has been disclosed by my RTWC no idea what has been said of my recovery I only have partial capacity I assumed all staff knew I was returning to work but I face this sort of questioning every time I go into work and I’m like constantly saying I can’t discuss it I can’t discuss it and it’s quite irritating for me as it triggers memories of my time in my old workplace and then I feel guilt / sick anxious the rest of the day all I’m trying to do is get on with my day and not fester on all this hate mongers from this new work they are literally in shock that im there at all and it’s like the look on their faces is like why is she here what happened I get it but I can’t discuss it and I won’t discuss it

Re: Return to work

tranzcrybe — Thu, 25 May 2023 13:51:49 GMT

If many people are asking you the same questions, then it is likely the rumours have already been circulating (and possibly someone clumsily or vindictively leaked sensitive information). Unfortunately, your silence only fuels the curiosity and perpetuates gossip - such is the nature of human behaviour and it sounds like you're feeling goaded as one who prods a caged animal.

My suggestion is to dismiss such questions with a humorous quip about wanting to be closer to the beach or some other nonsense to put them off guard and deflect the attention. Alternatively, respond with a question asking why this is so important or relevant to them - perhaps ask why they think you are here. This may provide some useful insight into the background chatter.

As with all newcomers, there is a natural interest to establish a pecking order (with many vying for supremacy or simply out to score points) so it may be fairly innocuous behaviour exacerbated only by your secrecy. On some occasions it can be the need to sus out if you are 'genuine' and not someone planted to report on work practices.

However, you may be overlaying your past experience onto this similar environment which has understandably heightened your senses to intimidation - remember you are still recovering and this will take some time to adjust and build confidence again.

Re: Return to work

blues23 — Fri, 26 May 2023 00:25:57 GMT

Thank you for your reply all good points I know there is some toxic stuff between the two sites which I have no interest in participating in as toxic leads to toxic and once I participate in it I can become toxic myself which is something that just doesn’t sit right with me to chat about what happened to me at work in a different work site like it’s not relevant to why I’m at work I’m at work to support myself & my daughter that is all I understand the curiosity but honestly it annoys me a lot as it’s like why is it their business it not happening to them so move on , I will try these attempts at deflecting and redirecting the questions if it continues to be too much I’ll complain about it again to a more senior person and make it clear it’s not a point of discussion and I don’t want to discuss it or add to the already fractured relationships between the two work sites like honestly these people behave in ways I’m not accustomed to and it’s like weird and unsettling and quite childish it’s like if u hate each other go about it but at least just let it be like what’s the point of poking at it it change’s nothing

Re: Return to work

Emotions26 — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 02:57:47 GMT

Sorry to hear that nothing formal in place

There are policies in place around people returning to work after work cover.

Work cover are accountable and so are your management in theory.

It sounds as though your manager does not have the power from above management to do her job (did you say she?) as in "manage". A middle management issue that is rife these days.

Nevertheless you still have rights and it really is up to you how you feel.

How do you want to be treated?

Do you want it to just all go away, fade so that you can just get on with your job?

Or do you want to be treated with respect as a human being that every single person deserves?

How are you coping with your feelings and thoughts and are these impacting your personal life or all areas of your life as well as work?

There are advocates and resources but sometimes it takes a while to find ones that are helpful.

Some people believe ignore it or speak about it.

Ask yourself what you believe before you make any decisions as your choice can impact you further down the track and you must put you first.

I really hope that you have some help here.

Fairwork ombudsman covers this stuff. They have a huge workload yes. You still are entitled to their help and can make the call if you have not already. They might give you further directions.

There are other avenues.

Have you telephoned the Beyond Blue helpline? They have a list of resources and might be able to redirect you also.

Re: Return to work

blues23 — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:37:20 GMT

Hi emotions

things well are not so good was progressing along last weeks prior my boss told me a different roster than what my return to work plan is ( I of course confused and followed my bosses directions only to find out on finishing shift she was wrong to make me work longer than expected and on my day off she contacted me basically accusing me of not being at work on my day off which is listed as not working on my return to work plan. It very much got to me that phone call had an anxiety attack for hours hardly slept for worrying over it it’s been challenging to say the least and because there’s not much support in place I feel very bad almost TV back to square 1 just because of this phone call on my day off I’m speaking to my GP tomorrow maybe to reduce my work hours drop a day due to the stress I’ve had these past few weeks I’m still pretty wired and worried if I change my hours gives my work more reason to be more difficult than already is . I don’t mind the place I’m working at but I really prefer people leave me alone most of the time I have put a face on and don’t even be myself it’s like my coverage

Re: Return to work

rufina03 — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 11:36:49 GMT

I’d be reporting it now

its one thing to be curious - it’s another to be constantly asked

This is your personal information and you’re protected by privacy laws

I’d just be like - everyone is so curious and ever since I came back I get asked this x times a day / week. If you want to talk about something else work related, or you want to talk about your work arrangements, happy to chat otherwise I’m going to have to cut this convo short and get back to work

seriously - just be like, I’m back part time and working here for the time being… is there something else you need to know?

and just be like ‘maybe have a chat to HR or a manager or something, I can’t help you with that. I’ve said all there is to know’

That is it - that is all they need to know. You’re in part time and working there. Have a nice day. Back to work.

I’d just throw random statements maybe too

change is good, isn’t it? and I’m loving this office / the plants

find something positive - you love the commute. Glad to be there.

If it’s the same person pressing - report it.

It’s just not that interesting - normal people don’t care, they just focus on work and make some small talk and might ask but not in the sense of pressing you

Re: Return to work

rufina03 — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 12:21:22 GMT

Oh… if you’re on graduated return to work…. Call WorkCover….

You need an advocate - this is very stressful to deal with as the person recovering. It’s a lot easier for others to advocate and help you navigate this with some support.

I’ve been there and I can tell you right now - my capacity to advocate for someone else and ride someone else’s boss is different to what I had to do on my own

Hang in there ok. This is all very wrong and you’d be surprised which workplaces are as lax and bad as your workplace - places you can’t imagine.

My workplace had all the policies and was in an industry with a big stake in this area of work - bullying and this kind of behaviour is not ok but this is what happens even in the industries that are supposed to be all about this stuff.

You’re not alone. See if there’s a disability advocate or mental health or anxiety advocate or something…

community legal centers might be able to help you draft a letter

they have duties under WHS act etc so seriously - report it all as a hazard notification if someone can help you write it and just set out the things happening so far…. Makes it a bit easier to complete

But expect backlash and they’ll push you out.
alternatively. Do they have a HSR or a site OHS rep? That’s who I would see. This is all psychosocial hazards and there’s codes of practice.

the laws haven’t changed - they have duties

Re: Return to work

Emotions26 — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 02:35:21 GMT

Hello blues23

It is good that you are seeing your GP and remember to get a medical certificate covering you for time off.

Your manager has broached so many of the regulatory rules of employment. The fact that you are now needing to reduce your hours due to such treatment is also causing you further distress.

You are not required to discuss the reasons for time off with anyone including managerial staff when having a medical certificate.

You could try contacting disability advocacy in your state as anxiety and workplace bullying is something that they look into.

Here is a link for Australia to help you find your state representative.

Good luck with everything

You are doing nothing wrong.

You are looking after your health.

I would not be entering into any lengthy conversations with any of the cretons who are taunting you.

I would respond only with "I need to focus purely on my work for the safety of all".

Keep on writing about it here. Maintaining your confidentiality and identity as we all need to.

This will help somewhat by releasing your built up emotions in a safe environment.

All the best

Emotions26

Re: Return to work

Emotions26 — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 02:56:34 GMT

Sorry forgot to leave the link

will not allow me to post link

search for disability gateway australia

or ring beyond blue helpline if does not work

Re: Return to work

blues23 — Sun, 18 Jun 2023 05:45:58 GMT

Hi emotions

thstnks for your reply I have reported the issues the questions have sort of ceased: new issues thou of my boss making me work longer than my RTWP states also got a call on my day off with being accused of meant to be at work which set off a panic attack and felt quite bad about myself for a few days I felt the need to fight the anxiety so I continued to go to work I’ve addressed these issues with the RTWC who is not much help but yes there’s confusion but not much help really so many other things like being left on site with a placement student ( I had no idea was a placement Student until Wednesday of last week ) with 1 other staff while they work on the kitchen I’ve reported this to work cover too it’s yeah interesting I haven’t been given an induction, any access to files that I need to access to actually do my job I’ve mentioned these things to nearly two months of being back at work nothing. I sent off a couple of emails to work with these things not happening so little anxiety regarding going to work tomorrow as it’s like I’ve set off more bombs due to my works lack of any communication/ direction of my RTWP duties yes I have duties list but no access to files I’ve been sent to a new work site with no access to information so it’s like a dud of a thing Im just gonna turn up tomorrow and be like well it’s management responsibility to make sure I get all the training and resources to do my job therefore it’s not my fault it’s not being supplied

Back again

blues23 — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 12:53:24 GMT

Same if not slightly worse issues than before on Wednesday my Return to Work co ordinator spent a good 45 minutes abusing me for reducing my hours ( graduated return to work plan) I’ve had a lot of stress at work / returning to work . So this abuse I got off my RTWC left me frozen with fear I couldn’t get out of my car just frozen couldn’t think straight or breathe properly ( still same 3 days later on the calming down aspect and the breathing aspect) so anyway went to dr got no capacity for 4 weeks as I had a massive panic attack at the drs couldn’t function properly. No I worry as it’s past 52 weeks my employer does not have to keep my job open ( things that my RTWC said to me were very discriminatory asking me things about my mental health and why treatment is taking so long, threatening to fire me if I wasn’t “ better “ in like two months time and just threatening to terminate me in any regard.it was like really abusive went on for 45 minutes. My concern is that I won’t get a job again or I’ll be struggling financially after all this like stuff .has anyone ever been on work cover and gotten another job afterwards? And what was it like ?

Re: Back again

Givi — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 08:16:25 GMT

Hi there, I just wanted to comment that there have been HEAPS of jobs I've had in the past where I haven't been questioned on whether I've had a workcover claim. Some do, but those jobs have been very few. I hope this helps relieve some anxiety your having.

Re: Back again

Emotions26 — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 01:52:03 GMT

Hello blues23

Sorry that I have not responded to you for a few months. I was away and then returned with covid which further confused my already confused foggy mind.

How are things with the work situation now?

I will let you know that I am not on my computer every day so I may not see your post if you do reply.

I sincerely hope that things have settled for you as it is deplorable that anyone be treated so poorly.

Emotions26

Re: Back again

blues23 — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 09:22:40 GMT

Hi emotions

sorty u got covid , hope ur better now , I’ve had covid many times. Work ( in that work place )is over they have said they have no role for me so I’m only recently starting to get back into looking 4 another job and getting rehabilitated ( not started yet with it ( but looking to the future although terrified of going to work ( interviews) I have this internal struggle stress fear apprehensive about it all especially returning to the same role I was in before even if it’s a different employer I’m very scared to work with others people colleagues and stuff but I hope in time that will pass i can’t hide under a rock forever right ??

Re: Back again

Emotions26 — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 07:24:47 GMT

Hello blues23

That is a dreadful experience to have to deal with whilst trying to recover and rehabilitate.
Workcover has a history of not supporting clients sadly.

Clearly has not improved at all.

Gosh how many times have you had COVID? That would have an impact on energy levels and your mind as well.
I imagine that you were expecting the no available role as part of the poor treatment. I think that outcome is far better for your long term health.

Rehabilitation is that still work cover?

Your internal response is a natural human reaction.
Do you need to return to the same type of role or can someone help you highlight all of your skills.
I can think of a few enduring that experience.

Resilience

Determination

Persistence

Reliable

Assertive

Loyal

working under pressure

Starting a new job causes varying levels of anxiety and also adrenaline which can feel similar.

At your interview try to focus purely on a new beginning with new people at new premises. Try to focus on your eagerness to succeed and opportunity to start afresh.

I hope that you have a go or some kind of Counsellor who can help you through these stages.

Have you rang Beyondblue counsellors yet? They are very supportive and can provide some helpful ideas. You can ring more than once. They are also available 24/7 . If not sleeping call and have a chat.

keep on writing about your thoughts; feelings as much as you want to that helps release some of the intensity.
I believe that was the wrong job for you and something will eventuate even if not what you expect.

Look after yourself.