I'm just looking for some support, advice or if you have any stories to share please.
I'm currently working part time in a very physical and demanding job, I just finished a degree in university and I'm taking a year out to have some me time. I feel very unhappy in my job at the moment, it's not what I ever imagined myself doing but it was ok for the time when I was studying at uni. I didn't plan on staying but 5 years down the line I'm still there. So many people tell me I am in the wrong job and I have the potential to better my career by going down the route of my chosen degree, but to be honest I have a mix of emotions... I'm nervous and scared about taking that step, I hate change and im in my comfort zone at the moment but it's not a challenge what so ever. I want that dream job I've worked so hard for but I don't feel physically or emotionally stable to do it at the moment. I've recently been thinking about giving up work for a bit and to concentrate on getting better because the endo has got so bad lately. My pain levels, fatigue, anxiety ..... The list goes on , is so bad I can't cope anymore, but I don't want to be judged as a sponger for claiming benefits, I don't know if it will make my depression and anxiety worse for being in the house all the time, or will I have more time for me and begin to look after my body. I just don't know what to do, I really need some help.
Thanks in advance
Xxxxx
Written by
Catlover93
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Unfortunately no one can know what's best. What do you feel you need to do? I did leave my job because of the way I was and thankfully found a very easy job. I also have done the 5 years at uni and I am now just an assistant to someone who has a few small businesses. Not what I planned but it works for now.
I personally know that not working would make me depressed. I 100% feel more of the pain when I have less to do. And unfortunately I don't see there every being an end to me being ill/in pain. So taking time out probably would set me back. But that is just Me!!! You will know yourself how you feel and have been in the past.
I hated my last job in the end and you sound like I did. I was bloody good at it, but it was a uni job, I had been their long enough and needed to move on. It was just time. Nothing to do with my health even though the endo would have made it impossible at times. Also I left on good terms.
Think outside the box a little? Leave your job and find Something stepping towards your goals but in an easier role. Work your way up to it? Just an idea. It's really working for me right now and hopefully by the end of the year I can take that next step.
I loved my job at one point was in it for 7 and a half years before a new cook took over and then she threw in the spanner she treated me not very nice and due to pain i was in with my endo I told her I had endo and it made no difference she pushed me to breaking point I had to end up being signed off sick due to depression in a way I was glad to be away from it and all the stress and been nearly three months since Iv been away from my job and it's the best thing I ever done but only u can decide what's best for u and can imagine what it must be like for u but do what makes u happy and wish u all the best for u future xx
When I left Uni I was in a similar position. I can't remember my second year as it was a blur of fatigue and pain. However I decided to go for a graduate scheme. It was high pressure at points but it also meant a lot of support into the role. Also there is a legal requirement for companies to now considered a request for flexible working.
Also many companies will now consider things like home working. So I think it is case of looking round to find the right role for you. If you go into a larger company then there is potential to progress if but you could go in at a lower level in something less demanding for now and see how things go.
I agree with Sam 341, for me not working at all would make things worse.
I am worried what happens if it flares up again, but the right employer will be supportive. I can understand its daunting but remember there is also legislation that can protect you. Hope it goes ok.
Ok firstly you are right depression and anxiety will become worse if you are in the house all the time so definitely avoid that unless you are bed bound. If your job is physically demanding then it is probably not very compatible with Endo. Have you considered doing something postgrad like a masters or maybe looking for part time work that relates to your degree to help you along in the right direction? Even in a voluntary capacity? If you need to go on benefits you shouldn't feel any shame you have worked and you may need help to get better - that's what the system is for. Many women with Endo get dla/esa but be warned - the applications are lengthy, incredibly personal and if you are severely affected it can actually depress you quite a bit having to write down the intimate details i.e. If you can't stand to cook/wash by yourself or have difficulty with continence - that's all asked about. Then of course there is the medical to worry about. They are all much of a muchness.... If you need the help it's there but it's not the easy option by any means.
Everyone feels anxious and unsure, nervous and scared when change comes along - if you start to pursue your dream job and it's too much then go back to the drawing board and just get another part time job - you have experience and a degree, so that won't be too difficult. Staying where you're unhappy you'll never know. A few things you could do to help Endo - go on the Endo diet, if you're overweight - lose it, acupuncture, yoga. Medically you can try a range of pills, painkillers, hormone injections or laparoscopy/laparotomy if the pain is very bad - make sure you see an Endo specialist in a bsge centre.
Check out the Endo resolved website for more on alternative/medical treatments. There is a lot you can do that will really massively help your Endo and make it easier for you to cope physically and mentally - remember you can always ask your gp to be referred for counselling if you think it would help to talk to someone who's removed from your situation.
Sorry to hear you are having such a rubbish time. My advice... Get out get out get out!
I've just come out of a very similar situation and I've started a new 'dream job' role, I can't tell you how nervous I was about similar concerns to yourself (pain levels, fatigue, anxiety) but having started my new role and not being in an environment I hate, I feel so much better! It's also had a huge affect of my pain/fatigue levels. Being in a job you aren't enjoying makes everything worse, your stress and anxiety levels definitely have an impact of your pain/fatigue levels. Find something you love doing, you may find it helps you mentally which I found helped me feel more 'prepared' to battle the endo and less drained before he day had even begun.
Hi ya. If I were in your shoes (as I work full time and commute currently) I would take time out for yourself a little - maybe a couple weeks. I understand the battle with working with endo as most days I went in doped up on painkillers. That said I wouldn't be so easy to give up work - i would look for another job - life is too short to stay in one which you don't enjoy. That might not be helping your symptoms either. So for your own sanity I would get a new job. I would also get back to see your consultant to get a treatment plan in place which works. You only get one life so dream big and jump at opportunities.
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