Struggling to quit job

[theo-m]

Hi there!

I recently got a job. However I've been unable to work there because my anxiety either gets too out of hand, or my brain just turns off and I can't can't put my thoughts into words (very frustrating, can't even type out my thoughts 😞

My health professionals all thought the job was a bad idea, but my jobactive person was really encouraging about it.

However I'm beginning to come to the conclusion that I'm wasting work's time by being sent home everytime I go to work because I can't communicate beyond gestures.

I'm not sure what to do. I know I need to give 2 weeks notice, but considering my past shifts, I won't be able to work those 2 weeks either, and I'm not sure how to put that in the letter without being extremely rude.

[Croix]

Dear Theo-m~

It's nice ot hear from you, even in these circumstances.

I guess the first thing to do is to say nobody can work beyond thier ability - no matter what . It sounds very much like that is what you are trying to do, and when it turns out to be impossible you feel as if you are in some way lacking. It is simply not the case.

I'm sure you wold have realized by now there is a basic conflict of interest, your medical team have your welfare at heart, and if they assess the situation and say this work is not on, there is no reason not to beleive them.

Jobactive representatives on the other hand have a different agenda, to get ad many people as possible into work - as quickly as possible.

I know you are finding it hard ot think about giving that two weeks notice, and you are quite right, as things stand you would not be able to work that two weeks. May I suggest that you contact your doctor and discuss getting a medical certificate for the two weeks, something you can send in with your resignation.

This way no only have you no obligation to work out the time, but also it will show you have resigned for an acceptable reason - something I believe makes a difference to social security payments.

Please let us know how you get on.

Croix

[Shamira_1]

Hi, theo-m don't quit your job talk to your "GP" and ask for meds to help with your anxiety

[On The Road]

Hi theo-m,

I'm sorry that things have been challenging for you at the moment. I agree with what Croix said, Jobactive staffs have their priorities, to get people employment secured. and for you, your health wellbeing is the first thing to consider; As your health professional already suggested that the job was a bad idea, you may have a discussion with your doctor to see if they could help you with taking a break and reducing anxiety. It's good to slow down and thoroughly think about your balance of your health and career 😊

[foxandfate]

Hi Theo-m! 

There was a key word that stuck out for me in your post, that being "JobActive Person". I worked for a JobActive Provider for 12 months and it literally destroyed my soul. I didn't work for a year as a result, it was traumatising.  JobActive Providers have a financial agenda - they get paid a fair chunk of cash when you have been in the job for 4 weeks, then another lot again at 6 months, adding up to about $10k per placement. Their interests are not your wellbeing. The staff on the otherhand, as individuals - in my case it pained me to have to do what I did to people that had anxiety like you. At the last Federal Election I ran for pre-selection in order to create change in the Centrelink/JobActive/Pension space. Having been both an employee and a recipient, I guarantee the program does not work (I wasn't pre-selected). 

That being said - the fact you took the job and gave it a shot speaks volumes about you. You are brave and strong and have an incredible self-awareness. You are not wasting anyone's time at all. You are important too. 

As other commenters have mentioned, make an appointment with your GP and have a chat with them about possible medication (if you feel you need it), and a medical certificate for work. I'm on a mental health plan and see a therapist once a month. 

Maybe a part-time job would be better? I know my local supermarket hires people to stack shelves at night - provides an income and minimal communication - maybe it isn't suitable but just an idea. You do what is right for you. 


Hang in there, you are valuable too! Keep us posted, sending you the best of luck 🙂