Overcoming Workplace Anxiety: A Journey from Fear to Confidence

Fear of going to work?

The story begins in elementary school.
In the first semester of first grade, I really enjoyed going to school and found it fun and exciting.
At that time, I had no obstacles and was even able to go on stage to receive awards.
However, in the second semester of first grade, I had a new teacher who was very strict.
When my homework was poor or I didn't understand something, Ms.
Li would harshly scold me and even pinch my cheeks, calling me an idiot.
Other teachers would whisper when they saw me in the hallway, saying that child is an idiot, which deeply hurt my feelings.
Because of Ms.
Li, my academic performance declined, and I never received another award, finishing at the bottom of my class all the way to graduation.
This experience made me very afraid of interacting with people.

Why did I end up working in caregiving? Of course, it was because my education level was low, and this job paid a bit more.
I have always been very anxious about going to work.
I work as a 24-hour caregiver in a hospital, and every time before my shift, I feel nervous and scared because I don't know what kind of cases I will encounter and whether I can handle the job.
The night before I have to work, I often suffer from insomnia and can't sleep, which means I am not well-rested the next day.
I can only tell myself to take it easy that day, so I go to a coffee shop for breakfast, trying to stay awake during the day.
At night, I do manage to sleep a little better, but the next morning, I struggle to get up and can't go to work.
This creates a vicious cycle.

As someone who is single and lives alone, I wonder how I can survive without a job.
People around me look at me strangely and question why I don't work and why I stay at home all the time.
What should I do? I'm also afraid to see a doctor; I don't want to go to a mental health professional because I'm worried that my health insurance card will show that I've seen a psychiatrist, and I'm afraid people will find out that I have anxiety disorder.

Pa shangban, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/08

Dr. Dai Wanxiang reply Psychiatry

Hello, based on your description, it seems that you are troubled by significant anxiety symptoms.
There are many potential causes for anxiety, which may relate to inherent temperament, past upbringing experiences, life history, and life stressors.
With the assistance of medication and psychotherapy (counseling), there is a high chance for improvement.
Due to societal changes, life stress has been increasing, leading to a higher likelihood of individuals suffering from adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, and depression.
Many people experience emotional distress similar to yours.
If your distress persists and affects your daily life, it is advisable to seek professional help from a psychiatrist or psychosomatic specialist, as it should be beneficial.
Regarding your concerns about health insurance card notations and others knowing about your anxiety disorder, medical records are considered personal privacy, and healthcare facilities cannot disclose them without cause.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2017/05/08

More Info

Overcoming workplace anxiety is a journey that many individuals face, especially those who have experienced negative formative events that shape their self-perception and confidence. Your narrative highlights a common struggle: the transition from a place of joy and enthusiasm for learning to a state of anxiety and self-doubt, particularly in a professional setting.
The roots of your anxiety can be traced back to your early experiences with a strict teacher, which not only impacted your academic performance but also instilled a fear of judgment and failure. This fear can manifest in various ways, particularly in a work environment where performance is constantly evaluated. The pressure to meet expectations, especially in a demanding role like nursing, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.

It's important to understand that anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes overwhelming, it can hinder your ability to function effectively. The physical symptoms you describe—insomnia, nausea, and fatigue—are common manifestations of anxiety. These symptoms can create a vicious cycle; the more anxious you feel about work, the less well you sleep, which in turn makes you more anxious and less able to perform well at your job.

Here are some strategies to help you navigate this challenging situation:
1. Seek Professional Help: It’s crucial to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide you with coping strategies tailored to your specific situation and may recommend therapy or medication to help manage your anxiety. Many people find cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) particularly effective for anxiety, as it focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce anxiety levels. These techniques encourage you to focus on the present moment rather than worrying about future outcomes.

3. Gradual Exposure: If social interactions are a source of anxiety, consider gradually exposing yourself to these situations. Start with low-pressure environments and slowly work your way up to more challenging interactions. This can help desensitize you to the anxiety associated with these experiences.

4. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or colleagues who understand your struggles. Sharing your feelings with others can alleviate some of the burdens of anxiety and provide you with encouragement.

5. Establish a Routine: Creating a structured daily routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability, which may help reduce anxiety. Include time for self-care, relaxation, and activities that bring you joy.

6. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Work on identifying and challenging negative thoughts about yourself and your abilities. Keeping a journal can help you track these thoughts and reframe them into more positive, realistic statements.

7. Focus on Your Strengths: Remind yourself of your skills and past successes. Reflecting on what you do well can help counteract feelings of inadequacy and boost your confidence.

8. Limit Exposure to Stressors: If certain environments or situations trigger your anxiety, try to limit your exposure to them when possible. This might mean taking breaks during particularly stressful shifts or finding ways to manage your workload more effectively.

9. Educate Yourself About Anxiety: Understanding that anxiety is a common issue can help normalize your experience. Many people face similar challenges, and knowing you are not alone can be comforting.

10. Consider Medication: If your anxiety is significantly impacting your daily life, medication may be an option worth discussing with a healthcare provider. It can help manage symptoms while you work on other coping strategies.

Lastly, remember that recovery is a process, and it’s okay to seek help. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and addressing these issues can lead to a more fulfilling and confident life. You are not defined by your anxiety; with the right support and strategies, you can overcome these challenges and thrive in your professional life.

Similar Q&A

Overcoming Anxiety and Self-Doubt: Finding Confidence in Decision-Making

Hello, since I was a child, I have always been a person who thinks a lot, and even as an adult, I find it easy to rely on my family. During the four years I lived in the university dormitory, I felt very confident because I had to rely entirely on myself. However, after graduatin...

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your message. Based on your description, it is clear that you are experiencing discomfort related to your emotional state. The symptoms of intrusive thoughts often accompany feelings of uncertainty and may even lead to obsessive thoughts. A classic ...

Overcoming Self-Doubt: A Programmer's Journey Through Anxiety

Hello doctor, I was originally a software developer and have been at a new company for three months. However, during these three months, my colleague has been constantly modifying my code, and when I ask for reasons, they are vague. The other colleagues are not in this field, so ...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, A-mei: Past events may cast some shadows, but as time goes by and we gain new experiences, those shadows typically become diluted. Future work situations are independent events, and past circumstances usually do not repeat themselves. If they do recur, it can provide us wi...

Overcoming Anxiety and Shyness in New Environments: A Mental Health Perspective

I often feel anxious when facing strangers or new environments, and I am very concerned about others' opinions. When guests come to my home, I tend to shyly retreat to my room. During my college years, I dreaded the start of new classes, fearing group activities. Sometimes, ...

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, The issue you mentioned seems, on the surface, to be a lack of self-confidence. However, living in this world often brings about a persistent pressure that echoes a voice deep within, saying, "Not enough, not enough; you haven't done enough." I hop...

Overcoming Interview Anxiety: Strategies for Job Seekers

Hello, Doctor. As the title of the article suggests, I am currently struggling with the fear of interviews while being unemployed. Most people feel pressure and fear due to prolonged unemployment, but since I just finished my last job and have not yet felt the immediate pressure ...

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry
Dear figarowhat, I apologize for the late response regarding your inquiry. It is indeed a concern that many people face. Generally speaking, when individuals encounter challenging situations, there is an instinctive response of fight or flight, which is accompanied by the reflexi...