FAQ

Find answers to some of the more frequently asked questions on the Forums.

Forums guidelines

Our guidelines keep the Forums a safe place for people to share and learn information.

Anxiety in workplace

Guest_11438242
Community Member

Hey All,

 

been having severe panic attacks whilst at work to the extent of needing additional medication to calm down and function on an auto pilot mode.

 

my employers are aware of my condition and I am very upfront when panic attacks take place.

 

the trigger to this happening occurs when I am made to feel my best is not enough, and my workload is publicly and often scrutinised by my manager. I have spoken several times about how this affects me to my manager as well as their manager. When this happens things settle for a week or so but then the negative culture and remarks start back up again.

 

i just got back from a week of leave and lasted one day before a severe panic attack occurred due to my managers communication to me.

I feel I am at the end of my rope, I’ve tried communicating how I’m going, “letting it go” and “just get on with it” and that the only viable option for my health and wellbeing now is to resign as I can’t cope with the workload and culture.

aside from my manager, I love my job and working alongside my other colleagues but I’ve given just over a year to see adequate change within the management styles.

 

has anyone been through something similar? What did you do?

 

 

2 Replies 2

WishyBee
Community Member

Hi Guest,

I’m sorry this has been happening to you at work and that you have to deal with a difficult manager. 
Unfortunately there seems to be this type of person in most work places. Perhaps you could find a job with less direct contact with supervisors. 
Having panic attacks can be exhausting so I hope you are taking some time to rest, recover and do some things that bring you joy.

Take care 

WishyBee

Happylife
Community Champion
Community Champion

Hi Guest_11438242,

 

Warm welcome to the forums. I am really sorry to hear about your work anxiety, it can be really tough when you feel like your efforts are not recognized and you have an unsupportive manager.

 

This seems like a toxic environment to work and they have unrealistic expectations. From what you have mentioned, you have already spoken about how you feel to your manager and their manager, but the same things keep happening after a while. Toxic managers and work environment can take a heavy toll on your mental well-being as it affects your self-confidence and the motivation to work.

 

Glad to hear you love your job and working with other colleagues, so resigning can be the last option.

 

Maybe you can try documenting everything, make sure to note instances of unfair criticism or inappropriate behaviour. Having a record can be extremely useful if you decide to escalate the issue to HR or higher management.

 

I know you are going through a tough time, but please stay professional at all times and especially don't gossip about your manager's behaviour with others.

 

I really hope things improve in your workplace and you feel nice to go to work every day. Remember to be proud of yourself and you are doing your best no matter what they say.

 

If you feel like, please keep sharing about how you are going, happy to listen and help...

 

Take care

Happylife