Question on getting back to work.. Jan?

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-18-2003
Question on getting back to work.. Jan?
1
Sat, 08-06-2005 - 2:30pm

I really hope to be able to return to work before too long. I have been home since the last week in January. I don't know how to make this happen. I am at a total loss. Despite all my progress, I still won't go anywhere without dh. I am leaving his side in the stores, etc...for the first time in 6 months & see that as a big accomplishment. Before he had to be right with me or within sight. If he left me to go to another aisle I would have a major panic attack & call or should I say yell out for him - very embarassing for us both :) How do I take this one step further, since I don't drive, so I can get used to doing things without his support? I still won't walk down the street, the thought scares the crap out of me. If I could take walks, maybe that would help? Jan, since you are also a nurse, did you have to deal with this? It's such a stressful job & I worry constantly about having problems when I go back. I've considered changes employers and not telling anyone of my problem, but then I think that might add to my stress. Help!! Lol.

Sheri Ann

Sheri Ann

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Sat, 08-06-2005 - 3:41pm

This is a scary thought, Sheri Ann, but you can do it! I suggested spending time alone in the library in another post. What about overnights away from home or in a motel when you can work up to it? There's alot of places you can go by yourself. What about making a committment to a volunteer position, like delivering flowers/mail/water to patients in a nursing home?


As for work, being busy & focusing on your patient's needs will stop any thoughts of panic in it's tracks. I never panicked @ work. I did get anxious when it was nearing the end of my shift. My fear was the drive home on a lonely, uninhabited road where I was convinced the car would breakdown or I would need emergency medical attention. The monsters we can create in our anxious minds! OMG!


Did your employer know about your anxiety when you left? Were they understanding? For me, returning to the familiar