Not sure what to do

[Kimmy42]

I am so unsure what to do. I have worked hard all my life and finally landed a job in the medical field, but after 15 years being fairly stable with my health anxiety and GAD I have fallen, I have been struggling so bad for a few months. Back on medication but it seems slow to help me, I feel like I’m suffering inside. Anyways the department I got put in is for palliative care and end of life, it seems to be stirring up my health anxiety even more, all day I’m surrounded by death and people dying and it stirs so much sadness for them and their families but also stirs fear so deep in me thinking it will be me one day. All I think is maybe I’m sick, it is consuming me and it’s ridiculous, the fear of it is all I think about, I’m being ridiculous. I don’t know what to do, do I need to quit this job? Do I give up a high paying job because I’m weak? I’m confused, can I get past this and cope? Sorry long and rambley.

[Hidden]

I say quit. I'm a nurse now so I have seen alot over the years. When I was young I was a Paramedic for a bit. I quit because it was so traumatic and I often saw things that still worry me to this day with driving and my daughter. If it affects you try some other medical unit like surgery or something with less sadness. It will add up over the years. The money is not worth it. You can't erase those memories.

[NeuronerdDoaty]

It’s a joke in medical school how many diseases the students ‘get’ while in school. It’s not unnatural. I have c-ptsd from 30+ years of being a healthcare provider. It’s a different kind of care because we know we’re walking into it every day. Talk openly at work and with your therapist so you don’t hold it inside. It’s okay to relieve stress in this field however you need to do it.

[Simpsons]

Hi Kimmy. I’m full of admiration for anyone who works in palliative care.... I think you’re amazing. If you’re going through health anxiety and GAD it must be really hard. I not in the nursing profession myself but work in a GP Surgery and find I can’t help becoming close to the patients. When it comes to end of life of people you have know for sometime it’s really hard. Being in the professional you are can you share what’s going on with you? I’ve been so lucky that I did and have had the most amazing support. Sending you a big hug and please don’t think you’re ridiculous x

[Mary-intussuception]

Please find someone to talk to - your own Pastor / Minister; Hospital Chaplain; is there a colleague you would be happy you talk to? Occupational Health?

Are you able to get enough sleep, time away from 'work' for leisure pursuits, rest and refreshment, and are you eating well?

God Bless x