Chronic Procrastination and depression

[domn8]

Hi All,

I am stuck in a chicken and egg scenario. I am anxious, stressed, and depressed, and don't seem to be able to make myself do anything. On the other hand, I have fallen so far behind with my work that I feel like it's out of control, and this makes me stressed, anxious and depressed. I sit at my desk and can't figure out how to get started, what to do first, and find myself just sitting there waiting for disaster to strike because I haven't attended to something that I'd committed to do at work. Sometimes I feel like it's hopeless and I just want to run away from it all.

I'm super embarrassed by where I'm at - I used to be good at my job and I'm scared of the day that everyone will realise that I'm failing to achieve anything.

How do I dig myself out? Is there something that a doctor might prescribe (temporarily of course) that would help me to buckle down and focus?

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

The very first step in this scenario is proper diagnosis. Without that you are second guessing and causing yourself more grief with speculation.

If there is no diagnosis of any mental illness then your problem could be anything from a simple emotional dip to lack of sleep or other easily fixed issue.

So make an appointment with your GP and take it from there.

All the best

TonyWK

[Chunty]

Dear domm8, I am so sorry to hear what you are experiencing. Sounds to me like you got no control and it is pretty freaky and overwhelming. Try not to put too much expectations on yourself. It is impossible to do everything at once.Do you have a counsellor, psychologist or a good GP.? They will be able to give you some medication for your anxiety that will calm you and help you focus. I would like to support you more, but I am constantly being interupted and cant concentrate what to say, so I have to go . Im sorry. Take care. Chunty

[domn8]

Thanks for your reply.

I left some information from my post. My GP diagnosed depression several years ago, and I have been taking medication off and on (currently on for the last 7 months). Sleep is certainly a problem for me, and often wake up in the middle of the night and find it impossible to get back to sleep as I panic about work. Unfortunately this isn't so easily fixed.

I'm also obese, having gained almost 30kg in the last 5 years, which obviously has a big impact on my energy levels and overall health.

I have had several sessions with a psychologist who had some helpful suggestions, but I feel a bit desperate at the moment and looking to make quick progress in getting back on top of things, and feel that I'm spiralling in the wrong direction.

[missep123]

Hi domn8,

I hear you, being in a cycle like that is incredibly difficult. I have seen this happen at my workplace too and what has often worked well is for the person to reach out. There is nothing wrong with asking for help or support! I've definitely needed it in my previous roles too. Do you have any managers or supervisors that you feel comfortable reaching out to?

I have definitely felt that overwhelmed feeling before which has really impacted my motivation and made me procrastinate. What has helped me is to break the task down into smaller tasks. Would this be something that might work for you?

We are definitely here for you!