I really need to quit my job due to my severe anxiety but people around me aren’t supportive of it

[Nelle__09]

I am 20 and I’ve been struggling with anxiety for as long as I can remember and it seems to stem around being around people in social situations.

For context, around a year ago I quit my job after I was struggling immensely with my mental health and anxiety after a suicide attempt. It took me roughly 8 months to find a job, which was back in the hospitality industry, and after a short while of working there my mental health started to take a dive again.

This time I was aware and I could see the signs, so I took steps to ensure I wasn’t going to end up suicidal again. I found a new job and things seemed to be looking up but after recently starting this job I’ve been having severe panic attacks before/during and after work, throwing up at work and being sent home, making myself physically sick with nerves, not sleeping properly and I’m always constantly on the verge of tears because I’m always reminding myself of work.

It’s physically and mentally exhausting and I really want to quit but if I do I have absolutely no income what so ever. I am still living at home but my family is not supportive of me quitting, last year when I quit I was in slump and it took at toll on my family too who had to financially support me through all of it. I’m now currently drowning in bills and I know I need to work to be able to pay them but my anxiety is so bad that I can’t even push myself to be at work and I feel like burden to everyone, I honestly don’t know what to do at this point…..

[Merry G]

Hi Nelle_09,

Thank you for sharing. It can be really hard to open up to people you have not met.

I can imagine how difficult it must be to deal with your work-related anxiety. I can also appreciate why you think it is best to quit your job. However, as you mentioned, quitting your job would result in a loss of income and your family would prefer you to work.

I’m wondering if you have seen a GP about your anxiety. They may be able to give you some anxiety medication, helpful psychoeducation, and/or refer you to a psychologist/psychiatrist if you are interested in those options. Additionally, I know Centrelink offers jobseeker payments for people who are unable to work for a short-period of time due to illness, injury, or disability (Please google Services Australia, Jobseeker payment). I’m not entirely sure if it covers mental health-related concerns, but I’m sure you could research or talk to your GP about the possibility of acquiring a medical certificate for these payments. If this is the route you choose to take, you may have to speak to your employer about your situation so they understand/approve of your absence from work. Overall, these are just some considerations, please choose what you think is best, even if your family does not support your choice.

Wishing you all the best,
Merry G  

[jaz28]

Hi there,

I am so sorry you are experiencing this. You are so strong for pushing through and being here today. I am proud of you. First of all, have you seen a psychologist or your GP about these feelings? Have you been receiving adequate mental health care since your attempt? I have anxiety too and seeing a psychologist really helped me overcome it. I would recommend it 100%. When starting a new job, it is only natural to feel nervous and scared during your first couple of weeks, and even sometimes want to quit. Your mind is adjusting to a new routine, new people and new tasks to learn and remember - it is stressful and daunting. But after a couple of months, it should get easier. Now, since you are having quite severe anxiety about it, it might be indicative of something deeper going on. I would heavily encourage you to seek professional help from your doctor. It will seriously help you and eventually you will get your life back on track and be able to work without worry (if you are willing to work hard with your doctor to overcome it). You are not a burden, seek support from your family to help you overcome this too, it's so important.

I hope things improve soon,

Jaz xx