Going backwards

[loth57]

Just want to relate/ask advice on my predicament and see if anyone else out there can offer ideas.  Had to take 10 months off work due to anxiety and depression that, like many others, I didn't think was my problem.  Did all the psychologist, counselling sessions that did help, but got back to work and found work colleagues OK at first, but soon not accepting that I was struggling. Now drifting back to those sleepness nights, worries about how to fit everything in at work, panic about things I didn't have time to do and all the worry that goes with it.  Approaches to Managers fall on 'deaf ears' with the usual "can't set a precedent by giving you special treatment" (didn't ask for that, but seems a convenient way out for them to not face having to help) Just wondering whether anyone else has faced this and can offer anything on what they did to cope/manage etc?

[Doolhof]

Hi Ioth57,

Thanks for sharing your post. I was in a similar situation with one of my work places. I had 3 months off work and returned. Unfortunately my employer was not at all supportive so in the end I left that work place and was unemployed for a while. I had a husband who was able to support me until I found another job.

I am not saying that is the answer for you. I did a lot of thinking about my job and weighed up the benefits of continuing with work or leaving.

Can you return to your Dr and reorganise some psychologist and counselling appointments?

Can you remember the theories, strategies and techniques you may have learnt to help you get through this tough time?

I'm not sure if there is some Government Department somewhere you can contact to ask for suggestions on how to gain assistance and understanding from your managers.

Maybe try phoning Beyond Blue or Life Line, they may have ideas for you as well. Or use the Webchat here at Beyond Blue.

Can you make up a list of the jobs you need to do at work, and do one at a time? If you don't think you have to complete everything at once it might help.Can you pass on some of your work to someone else?

When you arrive home after work, find some relaxing activities to do that will help you to unwind.

Maybe write out the stresses of your day first so they are out of your head and not going around and around all evening.

I hope some of this has helped. A chat with your Dr might be a good start to help you get back into recovery mode again.

Can you plan to do something nice in your lunch break so your day does not feel like it is consumed by work?

Please let me know how you get on. From Mrs. Dools