Struggling this week

[HazyDaisy]

hey all

I find when work or life stresses me out, I have stomach issues and anything I eat runs right through me. I returned to a workplace 2 months ago for a 6 mth contract and I work offsite most of the week. I have been dealing with bitchy and jealous co-workers, over the top workload, isolation and unsuppuportive management. I had been doing quiet well until this week. I've had 2 days off work due to the stomach issues/not wanting to deal with work. I've been asked to provide a med certificate (which I know is normal practice) and goddamnit I don't want to talk to a GP about how stress affects me physically and depression rearing its bloody head AGAIN. I do not mention to work that I have depression.

Obviously my coping techniques need a rejig. I needed a vent. Perhaps I need to type out what is going on in my mind rather than bottling it in and waking up at 2am with nightmares about work.

Any helpful ideas would be great.

Karen

[Croix]

Dear Karen~

I have had the same problem, stomach pains and going to toilet all the time. A pure reaction to stress, depression and anxiety which came with many other symptoms as well, including job-related nightmares.

In order to get that certificate you do need to see a doctor, though the certificate can simply say 'a medical condition' or similar. No need for your work to know the details. I've done that too. In passing I'll mention that a doctor may be able to directly deal with that particular symptom, I suggest you ask.

Actually If I understand what you are saying you have been to the doctor before about depression and do not look forward to going back again. Sorry if I've misunderstood. All I can say is that medical support is the only way I improved. Both the physical symptoms and the mental. If one particular doctor is not sympathetic or you feel you cannot be frank, then can I suggest you try another. Rapport with your GP, and other professionals, is most important. Without faith in them I'd not have said a thing and would never have gotten better.

OK, your workplace sounds pretty bad,and maybe typing out what you feel might be good. Many people keep a journal and find it helps. With 4 months to go you are right, you do need to look at coping mechanisms. Too large a workload, isolation, problems with other workers and management, a lot on your plate. What sort of things do you think might help?

Off the top of my head leading a life where work is forgotten when you get out, distraction, exercise and so on would seem like starters.

If you look at:

Forums / Anxiety / SELF HELP TIPS FOR MANAGING ANXIETY

You will see lots of things to try. They do not make the workplace better, but can assist you in retaining a sense of proportion and coping with it all. Apart from the things listed there I find the free smartphone app Smiling Mind does an pretty good job of moving my mind out of anxious and unpleasant circles. It takes practice, but even I can use it reasonably well.

I do hope things start to improve for you

Croix

[HazyDaisy]

thank you