Anxiety and work

Posted , 4 users are following.

I think my main problem is anxiety (which causes the depression). I have not had many jobs but when I do work I find it extremely stressful. Even if I get on with everyone and can do the job I find that it gets increasingly difficult to go into the same place every day. The longest I have lasted anywhere was 2 years. I get knots in my stomach before I go in, then when I'm there I find it mentally exhausting because most of the time I'm having to pretend that I'm perfectly fine and everything is normal, when really I am feeling super stressed.  I worry about making mistakes and the longer I'm there the more of a worry this becomes. I can't imagine going to the same place to work for years on end. But it's not like I'm not a capable person, or particularly introverted. Yes I lack confidence and it can take me a long time to feel settled in a new environment with new people, but even when I'm feeling not too bad in a job it's still a relief to go home, and then the worry starts about going back in again! Added to that I have had a stressful number of years and I had to quit my last job due to developing fibromyalgia, which I think was caused by years of stress. And when I am feeling super anxious the fibro pains increase. So how am I meant to ever work again???? And how do I explain all this to a psychiatrist without sounding like a complete layabout?

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Posted

    Hedda,  I thought I was the only one in the entire world felt that way. It seems as though  everyone else could go to work with no problem. I had to hide my anxiety for many years. I just can’t find a job that I feel comfortable with enough to not mind going in every day.  it’s just too stressful for me.  I dreaded Monday.

     I was extremely shy growing up in most likely had social anxiety because I just wanted to stay home with my mom all the time.  I didn’t like going to school because of the shyness. I’m not shy anymore but I just don’t feel super confident at any job. It’s very frustrating. 

    I am not sure what the answer is especially as I get older. 

     so I know exactly how you’re feeling. Just tell the psychiatrist the truth about how you are  feeling. He or she should not judge you they are supposed to remain neutral.

     I have been to many counselors which have helped a little bit. I tried to remain optimistic and I do listen to audio meditations on YouTube for anxiety and depression. Let me knoW How you are  doing.  🌸🌸🌸

    • Posted

      Thank you Jan! I thought I was the only one too. I can completely relate to everything you said. I'm in my 40s now and honestly all I want is to get myself a steady job (that I don't dread going to) and a 'normal' life. Anyway, thank you for making me feel not so alone. XXX

  • Posted

    hedda99

    Are you seeing a rheumatologist for the fibromyalgia?

    If so the psychiatrist will not be involved.

    • Posted

      Hi, no the rheumatologist sent me to a health psychologist for the fibro but I have mental health issues which I've struggled with for a very long time so she referred me to the mental health team. 

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.