Anxiety has come back after starting New Job

[Chloe90]

Has anyone ever felt extreme anxiety around new jobs.

I left my part time job after 3 years for a full time secured government job. I haven’t had anxiety for a few years and am currently medicated.

i was excited to be offered this job and the first day was fine however the last 2 I have been a mess crying and anxious. It’s not the weekend and the tears and anxiety have not stopped.

i really don’t want to give up but I don’t know how to cope. Has anyone had this happen to them when changing jobs!

[Summer Rose]

Hi Chloe90

I have been in your shoes and I remember feeling completely overwhelmed, scared and like I just wanted to run away. What you are feeling is quite "normal", given the stess we all experience when starting a new job. Having anxiety unfortunately heightens the fear of change and can lead to panic.

I want you to remember that you landed the job. You suceeded above all others and this means you have the skills, experience and abilities to make a real go of it. You should be very proud of yourself.

Just breath. You know from past experience that the anxious feelings will pass. Perhaps you can try distracting yourself with a movie, exercise or whatever usually works for you.

When you are feeling anxious at work you can ... slip away to the bathroom and practice your breathing. Take a walk at lunch time. Drink plenty of water and reduce the caffeine. Call a friend for support. And just try to stay focussed on the "now" and get through each day one task at a time.

It might also pay to pop in and see your GP. I'm not a doctor, but it's possible that a temporary increase in your medication could possibly help you in the short term.

I found that once I got a few "wins" under my belt and I had made a few friends life got much better. It's not easy but it can be done. One day at a time and before you know it you'll have gotten through the week.

Feel free to keep posting and I'm sure this community will get you through it.

Kind thoughts to you

[Croix]

Dear Chloe90~

I"m answering your post you wrote elsewhere. Going for a new job is highly stressful for most people and I'm not surprised you have been having second thoughts. After all your old job was comfortable and you were used to the duties and the people. Now you are in a complete strange world.

Still that old job must have had some drawbacks, even if only wages, to make you want to accept the new job offer. The new job is more hours admittedly, however only 4 days per week, so there is some breathing space, perhaps even a mid-week rest. Plus of course working for the government is probably more secure long-term, a worry less.

I know looking at myself that anxiety comes wrapped up with a huge amount of self-doubt and I can easily overlook my skills and strengths and even convince myself I'm not up to the task. That's where my partner comes in, with her outside point of view reminding me that things are nothing like I'm imagining. Do you have anyone to lend you support and perspective?

I guess one of the things I've found is to try to get wrapped up in particular tasks. If I concentrate on them then it takes some of the pressure off. Add to that a strategy to take breaks, exercise, or at least stand up to make a physical break, plus any other ideas you might be using right now.

It may be there are some good people to get to know.

What I've done at home has had a big influence on my working day too. If I stay inside and worry then it flows over and I arrive at work all extra anxious. Trying for a walk or exercise, doing enjoyable things, interacting with people you are comfortable with. Good nutritious food and the best rest you can manage all do help.

It will get better as you become used to things, so please keep talking and let us know how you are going.

Croix

[Chloe90]

Thanks Croix,

I have a great support network. Sometimes my family get angry and say well just go back to your old job but then they realise that doesn’t help me at all!

I’m trying to stick it out my old job was only contracted no benefits etc so as an adult I needed to make the change. I guess I’m just scared it’s going to feel like this forever.

I just have to keep pushing. Will keep you updated 🙂

[Chloe90]

Thanks Summer Rose, I keep trying to think of the positives and how I landed the position out of 266 applicants but sometimes my thoughts get the better of me.

I didn’t expect to feel this anxiety and I guess the easy option would be to run back and try and get my old job back and run into my safe place, but I don’t want to give up.

I’m trying some essential oils so hoping that helps and going back to a psychiatrist although I don’t think a medication change is the answer as this has only come about since the job change prior to this I was fine.

will keep you posted!!

[Chloe90]

Hey Guys,

After about 2 weeks I settled into my job and thought I had everything under control. In the last week for some reason it’s come back again. I have been so good for 6 months. Nothing has changed no new things and than bam it hits me again.

Could it be possible my medication isn’t working? Am I just going through a bad patch? I feel nauseous, brain fog, anxious I have no hope for the future.

Please help

[Summer Rose]

Hi Chloe

A big congratulations is in order for the success you've had in your new job, although I'm really sorry to hear that you're currently not feeling well.

I think it's important to keep the way you are feeling now in perspective. Everybody has bad days and "bad patches" as you say; this type of experience is very common.

That being said, I know it's hard to live it. I would like to suggest that you pop in to see your doctor and have a chat. Let your doctor know what is happening for you and ask for advice.

Be sure to use your regular coping strategies, too. Deep breathing, exercise, healthy food, reduced alcohol consumption and plenty of sleep will help.

Always remember that the feelings will pass. And that you are stronger than you might think. Deciding to stick with the job and your success over the past six months proves it. You can do this. Hang in there.

Kind thoughts to you

[Chloe90]

Thankyou Summer for replying.

Its been a journey for me that’s for sure. I had a chat with my doctor she seems to think it’s just a ‘phase’ and said it’s unlikely to be my medication. But I’ve convinced myself it’s my meds and I’m going to have to change and that would be hell!

I just thought I was doing well and for it to rear it’s ugly head for nothing has shocked me I think. I’m scared is this what my life is like!

It helps being able to speak with people like yourself so thanks again!

x