Just need a chat and support

[Autumn77]

Hi everyone,

I just experienced my second 'attack'. I suffer from SAD and it messes with my head. I did the mistake of going off my medication. Back on it now for 3 months and so regretful.

I've been off work for 6 weeks and started crying last night because I'm ment to return. Earlier that day I had an anxiety attack. I'm obviously not ready yet? And need more time.

So Im going to the Dr.s to get another medical certificate for 2 weeks. I think this is the right thing to do. Because last night I was so distressed that I thought resigning would be a good idea. Because I don't know if this is the right job for me anymore with my condition. I work in retail/optcal store in a shopping center and deal with too many people.

I just don't know what to do. I don't know what is right.

I feel weak and a sense of letting myself down and others around me. I've always worked and think I should be able to.

Thanks for reading.

[Soberlicious96]

Dear Autumn77,

I am sorry to hear you are not feeling the best. My sister also suffers with SAD and has now moved up north to try and help her condition.

It's great that you are back on your medication, however I feel compelled to ask; is it being back on the medication that you are regretful of, or was it regreatful going off it in the first place?

I think it's a great idea too, to go back to your doctor and get further help.

Perhaps too, if retail is not for you, you could think about retraining or returning to study to pursue something else, that's not so 'peopley'?! Or at least find some sort of hobby that is a bit more 'solitary' so that you have at least a little bit of time each day or week, where you can just wind down and detach from the world. I, for example, like playing Solitaire on the computer. And I have also recently started doing some acrylic painting. Some people like to get out and go for a run .... not me though. If you see me running, something is wrong! But I do like a good walk around the block. Exercise will really get your endorphins ('happy hormones') going.

In the meantime, you can keep coming back here as much as you like. Sometimes a bit of a chill-out sharing session online can help take a load off too.

Anyway, I hope that helps at least a little. Take care, I'll be thinking of you. xo

[Autumn77]

Thanks soberlicious.

I regret going off my medication. I was going so well.

I do have a hobbies, knitting, but I still get anxious and in the end have to stop knitting because I cannot concentrate.

[Betternow]

Hello Autumn

I love the photo of your dog. He/She looks smart and loyal. May I ask, are panic attacks a regular part of your depression or is it something new on the scene? If the panic is a new entrant to your life, I suggest seeking immediate psychological assistance. In my experience it won’t improve without therapy.

Your job could be a factor in making you feel sad and anxious but I would not quit until you have sought treatment. Anxiety has a way of following you and each time you avoid a situation, that situation then becomes another no go area which helps reinforce your anxiety.

Keep responding here if you need someone to share your feelings. We understand and you are not alone. All the best Autumn.

[Autumn77]

Thanks better now.

I saw my gp and requested two more weeks off. I'm just not ready to return to work. I saw my manager and we have set a plan for when I return. And what activities I'll be doing. So that has made me feel better in knowing what is to come.

I also applied for a different job earlier, night/afternoon filler shift work. So it will be better as to not have to deal with too many people.

Today I got an email for stage two.Super excited to possibly working with less people around and having less responsibility. 😊