Work Anxiety and Medication

[Guest_48003732]

When I think about it, I've always had anxiety. But this year it has spiked and made working very difficult. I am a teacher, and feel like there is no space for mental health conditions. You can't just leave your students for a quick break. You need to show up and put on a facade. Every. Single. Day. Last year I found teaching and my general life very easy and fulfilling. But this year, every day is so hard. I bought a house at the end of last year and am struggling to make ends meet. I've had a lot of sick leave without pay and can't keep doing this.

I started taking antidepressants at the beginning of the year and don't feel like they are helping. I am experiencing depression and suicidal thoughts, which I've never had before. I used to love life. Part of me wants to run away, sell my house and live out of the car. But I don't know how I can come back from that.

Has anyone else had a similar experience with antidepressants? How do you keep pushing through the discomfort and go to work every day when it makes you physically sick? I can't keep doing this for the rest of my working life.

[Whatsinaname]

Hi Guest,

Welcome to the forums!

Although we can't talk specific medications I would recommend talking to your GP and/or psychologist about the symptoms to ensure they are aware and might need to change them. They can take quite sometime to kick in and make a difference but 5 months is a long time to be battling the side effects.

I've had the thought of selling everything everything and running away more than once in my life, and continue to have it pop up all the time. Life is hard and teaching is hard too. It's admirable that you are still turning up for your kids when you can, so feel good about that. Everyone needs a break though so don't be hard on yourself for taking a day of here and there.

I really do hope you start to feel better soon, we are all here to listen if and when you want to talk more.

Take care!

[Mark Z.]

Hi Guest, 

I'm really sorry to hear that you're going through such a tough time. I want to say that it is very brave of you to reach out and share your experience. You're not alone in this, many of us here have faced similar challenges.

It's crucial to discuss your current symptoms and concerns with your doctor who prescribed your antidepressants. It is not uncommon that it takes time to find the right medication or dosage. Your doctor may suggest trying a different antidepressant or adjusting your current dosage. Combining medication with therapy can be more effective than medication alone. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling can provide you with tools to manage anxiety and depression.

I would encourage you to open up and talk to a trusted colleague or supervisor about your struggles. They may be able to offer support or accommodations to help ease your workload. For long term future, it might be worth reflecting on your career path and considering if there are alternative roles within education or other fields that could be less stressful and more fulfilling for you.

In relation to your financial pressure, you may consider speaking with a financial advisor to explore options for managing your mortgage and expenses. They can help you create a plan to ease financial stress. If selling your house and making a significant life change feels like the right step, consider speaking with your advisor to carefully plan and ensure it's a decision made from a place of stability and thoughtfulness.

Hope this helps a bit.
Warmly,
Mark