Work anxiety

[Dontknowwhattodo1]

Hi,

I am suffering anxiety and have figured out its going to work, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety last week and have started on medication but after having time off last week I have woken up today and the thought of going into work has caused such bad anxiety I have had anxiety attacks. My doctors certificate was only to Friday but I feel I can't face work but am so worried if I take more ti e off people will talk about me and I will lose my job. I just can't face going to work and have been fine for years but recently it has snowballed and I feel helpless to what is going on. I would like some advice on what to do from anyone.

Amy

[Babyboomer]

Hi Amy. I do understand how you are feeling right now as I've been in a similar situation. However, if you've only just started on meds, they may initially make your anxiety seem worse. Might be best to talk to your doctor about how you feel. Sometimes the thing we think triggers our anxiety isn't what our anxiety is really about. For me it's usually after a long period of stress, then the wheels fall off at the slightest thing and I try and analyse what has caused it. But it's never because of just one thing. You're going through a vulnerable time so it's best not to make a decision about anything important.

Once the meds kick in, you'll start to feel better, so try not to worry about what you think others might think of you. We can't know what others think unless they tell us, but we can let our thinking sabotage how we see ourselves and how we think others see us. You may be surprised how supportive your workmates can be. I know I was.

Be gentle on yourself, you are not on your own. Anxiety is extremely common, but not everyone seeks help from their doctor. Many people self medicate without help. You are much stronger than you think you are and have sought help which isn't always easy.

Hang in there and stay in touch. There are some amazing people here who are very supportive.

Kindest regards

Jacky

[blondguy]

Hi Amy

Welcome to the forums and good on you for having the courage to post too!

I understand what you are going through as I had bad anxiety and also worked through it...when I could that is

Jacky has posted some great advice above. The meds can take a few weeks to work and in these early stages you may have increased anxiety as the early stages of anxiety/depression are awful Amy

Please dont think any less of yourself with these feelings/symptoms. You didnt ask for this in any way. It is the same as a physical illness as its partially chemically based anyway,

Your health is paramount. I understand that you are worried about work but when you are unwell work may have to wait.

Just my opinion I hope you can get your certificate extended so you can adjust to the meds. Did your GP say anything about work and further time off?

You are not alone here Amy. I really hope you can be a part of the forums.

please be gentle to yourself

Paul

[Clear_Calm]

Hi Amy,

I too understand how you feel, I have just started on this forum and have been unable to go to work for 2 months, due to stress, anxiety and depression. Brought and made worse by work. I have just been given another month off work from my doctor. It was so difficult to let work know what was wrong but I was honest and I found everyone to be understanding and very supportive. It made me feel like there was hope, so that might help you.

I believe you must take as long as it takes to get better, don't rush as you will end back in the same place if not worse. And we are all different and have a different story. Hopefully the medication kicks in for you and you start to feel better.

I love the advice and support that other people have given you, you are not alone, there is a lot of others out there for you, without you realising. Be true to yourself and be kind to yourself. Sometimes being strong means being honest with yourself and others, and remember one little step at a time.

Take care

Jo