Returning back to work.

[aphat06]

Hi all. I have been a silent reader all along but felt the need to post something here today. I have been off work since 2016 when my panic attacks were so severe and relentless. I have been staying at home trying to regain my life back for the past 2 years and has made good progress I must say though not 100%! I really yearn to return to the workforce as my boys are away at school for most part of the day. I am up for an interview this Friday and am having cold feet. The anxiety demon is telling me that I will falter and trying means and ways to put me down. Is there anyone who can provide me with some inputs about returning to work after time off due to panic disorder?

[gggg123]

When I decided to go back to work after 3 years of panic attacks and anxiety I had many interviews. One I walked out off because I got panicky, just got up and walked out. One I turned around and walked away from before I even went in, some I got anxious and ended the interview saying I didn't want it. In the end I got a job which I've been at nearly 5 years now, I didn't feel anxious at the interview or even before. It's been ok. It's your first one after it all. Don't pressure yourself even more, others will come along. See it as a learning curve and an experience. If you get it then good if not you overcame another hurdle back to being healthy again.

[aphat06 in reply to gggg123]

Thank you for your reply! Really made me feel better as I kept on worrying what if I leave halfway etc? You gave me hope and I will just attend it and see how it goes. Like you said, regardless, it is not a loss but another step closer to recovery. Thanks again!

[autumnthebrat2]

I have been out for a long time. I have been a stay at home dad, during that time taking care of an infant that was frequently sick, sometimes life threatening mainly by myself( wife worked a lot of hours) I developed severe panic attacks, tension attacks and all kinds of nervous symptoms. My body was not designed to take care of a baby, lol. I am now trying to return to the workforce, I do have a bachelors in accounting, but never utilized it. I am scared to death to start interviewing. I feel most employers will look sideways at me when I tell them I stayed home all that time This fuels my anxiety even more along with the fact that my job skills now are not the greatest. I am gonna do my best, the first one I will consider a test run and try not to put pressure on myself. I feel eventually, I'll get something. I am a hard honest and conscientious worker and feel eventually I will get something. Good luck to you (and me)

[aphat06 in reply to autumnthebrat2]

Thank you for your reply! I was hardworking too, maybe too much for my own good as it was actually heavy workload and work pressure that actually caused me this nervous breakdown. I have learnt my lesson the hard way I guess and hope that if I do land this job, it will be an opportunity to start anew and not repeat my old mistakes. Self and health comes first! I wish you all the best too and may we succeed to gain confidence and work again!

[ArchieMum01]

I just wanted to wish you well for your interview

I too have anxiety and am starting the whole getting back to work process. So far i have walked away from 1 interview and cancelled another one. I just keep reminding myself of how much i've already overcome and try not to over think any new situation, i find practising mindfullness quietly to myself helps to keep me calm & relaxed

Hope you carry on moving forwards, best wishes for your future