Workplace anxiety

[relax16]

I recently started a new job after a couple of bad experiences with horrible people at my previous jobs. On paper the job seemed made for me. I was so excited to get it. Now it has turned me into a ball of anxiety. I am scared to start work every day. Terrified to check emails to see what I have done wrong this time. I have just started on an SSRI and waiting for it to take affect. I was wondering if any one has any advice. If you have felt like this before what did you do to get through it? Quitting isn’t an option at the moment. I become a completely different person on weekends...enjoy myself and relax... then once the work week starts it’s early to wake ups again. I wish I could just toughen up and not take it all to heart but I feel like I can’t do anything right .

[jess334]

Hi Relax16,

First, congrats on the new job! Even though it is causing you some anxiety now, it is a big achievement.

Maybe you are so anxious because this job means alot to you?

I am always anxious when starting a new job or even a new task in my current role. I worry that I'll do everything wrong or even that I won't be smart enough.

Any antidepressants / anxiety meds can take a while to take affect, but hopefully soon you'll notice that you are less and less anxious.

Have you tried some mindfulness apps? Something that might help is listing all the reasons why this job is perfect for you and your achievements in the role, big or small. Even getting up and going to work is a big achievement when you are feeling so anxious.

Kind thoughts, Jess

[bluenight]

I know exactly how you feel, I'm always anxious in any work place to the point it effects my performance, how I relate to others, I'm male and I feel a bit embarrassed because I feel it's not how men should be.

I find what helps me is self care, so good diet, exercise, sleep, sunshine, basically looking after yourself.