Strategies regarding return to work

[GrayEm]

Can anyone help out there? I have been off work, due to anxiety being triggered off by a bout of labarynthitis. The issue is that my anxiety has now made me believe that I will not be able to cope with my job. Anyone got any CBT type ideas that can help me believe in myself again.

[GrayEm]

Just to add - I have kind of made myself believe that unless I find a less stressful job, I will not be able to get rid of my anxiety.

[Hidden]

The good old catch twenty two situation, Gray. Would giving up your job create more stress because you will feel you have failed, or do you stay on and take chance at getting better by working where you are? It is difficult to advise on this. My personal view is to stick at your present job but work toward recovery at the same time. Familiar surroundings are helpful in nervous illness. If you take anther job you may well find it stressful at first which will not help your anxiety. I have no CBT ideas because I only started the course and it was not for me. But give it a go as a lot of sufferers have got a lot out of it. Others may come on and advise having done CBT. Lack of confidence in nervous illness is very common and your confidence will return as you get better. Anyway, good luck. jonathan.

[Hidden]

CBT wise you could ask yourself

Is it true that I would not be able to get rid of my anxiety in my present job?

What evidence do I have to support that?

What would be a better more positive way of looking at this? (for example.....I have always been ok before, it is only since I had this labrynthitis that I have felt so anxious...and when it passes I I shall be feeling ok again.)

I have had what I call 'the staggers' a few times, very uncomfortable and makes me feel shaky.....but that is all there is to it think it is something to do with the inner ear. Stugeron can help....available at the chemist...read the instructions and talk to the pharmacist first....I find it stops the staggers quickly and always keep some in my purse.

Being unwell can be a anxious business and being giddy and nauseous is upsetting....all very normal....what you are feeling is normal, you are not mentally ill, just anxious. it is ok to be anxious....remember that if it happens again that it is only temporary, it is not a grave illness and will pass quickly. Find someone to talk to ....see a counsellor or a friend who will listen....don't be afraid to be afraid....we all are at some time in our lives.....good luck

[GrayEm in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for your helpful advice. Just to clarify though, my anxiety is not now about the labarynthitis, it is now about about whether I can cope at work.

Regards

Graeme

[Hidden]

Hello Graeme....yes I understand. Try the CBT questions using your fear of not being able to cope at work as the focus.

Warm regards

Anna

[Hidden]

Sorry, it's me again...just thinking how difficult it is to use CBT on your own...now there is a NHS online CBT course you might find helpful. You might like to check it out. Good luck

[henige]

You can go on the CBT course through your GP