Anxiety with/at/about work

Gamma Zebra · 26-02-2013, 05:02 PM

Hey,
The very thought of going to work triggers panic attacks.
Some of the things I have seen there have caused flashbacks and nightmares and really pushes my strength in stopping.
I feel so powerless there, and I am so anxious when I am there that I think I am compromising the quality of my work which is appalling and I hate myself for it.
My doctor has offered to sign me off of work but I am scared that If I do that then I will never go back and that isn't really an option when I need the money.
I can't do this. I can't be petrified of going to work.
Help?

startingagain · 26-02-2013, 05:50 PM

When you say it is down to things that you see are they things that are typical of your job e.g nurse? If not could you look for somewhere else to work? Work shouldn't be causing you to have flashbacks. Time off will give you some breathing space and time to think of what needs to change. If work has an occupational health department you might find it useful to be referred to them.

Gamma Zebra · 26-02-2013, 07:22 PM

I have seen multiple cases of abuse and neglect. I am a healthcare assistant (or nursing auxiliary). I have applied for other jobs but haven't heard anything.
I don't know about going to occupational health, would they listen to me?

startingagain · 26-02-2013, 08:13 PM

Are you in a union? If there is abuse and neglect then the best way to let people know is by using the whistle blowing policy. It wouldn't be easy, so I really hope you get another job and then you can report them. Take care.

Gamma Zebra · 26-02-2013, 08:29 PM

I have reported it.
I'm looking but I never hear anything back :/
Thanks for replying :)

talaiporia · 26-02-2013, 11:49 PM

Are you able to talk to your mum at all? It might be worth her making a complaint on your behalf if things are bad on the wards.

Taking time of work is an option if things get much worse, even though obviously that would make the money situation worse.

I think it's worth really focusing your efforts on looking for other jobs, or even work doing PFA stuff or tutoring, because it can't be as stressful as this.

Remember, you will get through this; it is not going to last forever.

talaiporia · 26-02-2013, 11:50 PM

Are you able to talk to your mum at all? It might be worth her making a complaint on your behalf if things are bad on the wards.

Taking time of work is an option if things get much worse, even though obviously that would make the money situation worse.

I think it's worth really focusing your efforts on looking for other jobs, or even work doing PFA stuff or tutoring, because it can't be as stressful as this.

Remember, you will get through this; it is not going to last forever.

startingagain · 27-02-2013, 12:46 AM

You're really brave reporting it whilst still working there. I hope they do something so you can enjoy working there again. As you have reported it I'd try OH and get it on record there the impact that it is having on you.

Gamma Zebra · 28-02-2013, 09:18 PM

I am waiting to hear back from another job.
I have another GP appointment next friday and I start my group therapy session thingy next thursday for 6 weeks.
I am worried about talking to Occupational health in case they say i'm too ill to work or say that I have been endangering the patients or something. I don't know what to do