Scared to start a fresh after time off sick..

[sjm448]

Hi, First time poster here and found this forum by accident because i was googling for some advice. I had a bit of a breakdown six months ago and ended up off work with stress. Various things had happened including a sexual harassment issue which resulted in the only action being taken to move me into a different team which i was totally unqualified to be in. Over time constantly feeling out of my depth really affected me i ended up in quite a state. I am now in the fortunate position of having secured a new job so i dont have to face going back to my old one. However, i am very very anxious about starting next week. That last job was the first job I've ever had which i just couldn't learn or understand and it has totally destroyed my confidence. I guess I'm looking for someone to tell me they have been there and know how I'm feeling and that everything works out fine?

[Jeff1943]

Work and occupation are therapeutic for people with anxiety disorders so you are doing the right thing returning to work. You have also done well to find another job and make a fresh start after the negative experiences in your last job.

Of course everybody is a bit anxious starting in a new job, even people without anxiety disorder. So of fourse you're going to be a bit apprehensive, you wouldn't be human if you didn't. But go into the new job with a positive outlook: expect to meet interesting people (some may even become good friends) and expect to find the work interesting - and you won't be disappointed I bet. Everything will be fine, you'll enjoy the work and the people, it's all going to be o.k.

[sjm448 in reply to Jeff1943]

Thank you so much x

[Hidden]

Your new employer has given you the position because they have seen qualities in you that they like, you wouldn't of been given this new job otherwise, it's normal to feel anxious with a new venture, if you do experience those annoying and unpleasant anxiety symptoms when you start this job you won't look any different to your new colleagues, all they will see is a person reacting to starting a new job, anxious and nervous, it's quite normal, your first day will come and go just like any other, anxiety can't stop time from passing, your first day will be over before you know it, you can do this xxx

[sjm448 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you so much. I just feel so sick at the thought of it. x

[Indigojoe in reply to sjm448]

how are you doing now?

[sjm448 in reply to Indigojoe]

still worked up to be honest, i just want the first few days to be over. x

[Hidden]

All that extra adrenaline being produced by your anxiety will give you that sickly feeling, your body is just reacting exactly as it should when your in an anxious state, be proud of yourself that you've been chosen to do this job, give yourself a treat, xxx

[sjm448 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, good advice actually x