Is My Heart Sick? Anxiety and Workplace Stress

Is my heart sick?

Hello, doctor.
First of all, thank you very much for reading this article.
After graduating last year, I resigned from a job I held for nearly three years.
The reason for leaving was that my boss often used sarcastic or belittling language towards employees.
Although I had achieved a certain position in that job, I did not want to continue working in such an environment.
I took the opportunity to change my career path after graduation and successfully found a new job.
Initially, I struggled to adapt to working in a large company, but I liked the job because it allowed me to engage with online business.
However, as a newcomer in the department, I heard from colleagues that the supervisor often spoke harshly to subordinates, using sarcastic or belittling remarks.
Most of them had been in the department for just three months, and the turnover rate was indeed very high.
This made me anxious about whether I had moved to a bad job.
I was influenced by my colleagues and began to think that perhaps I should leave this new environment quickly while I was still a newcomer.
So, I decided to resign.
After that, finding a new job was not as smooth.
I felt anxious about not quickly securing a job and not being able to contribute to my family's monthly rent of 15,000 TWD.
Although I knew my parents would find a way to pay the rent, I did not want to burden them with financial worries.
I accepted any job offer without thinking too much and soon realized that the company was not a good fit for me.
Despite my eagerness to learn, I faced unreasonable challenges from my supervisor and colleagues.
I had to report whenever I left my desk, and they would assign me excessive tasks, only to later ask why I hadn't completed them.
Eventually, I was inexplicably laid off, which left me feeling sad and fearful about entering new environments.
By the end of the year, I still hadn't found a job and faced numerous setbacks during my job search, including difficult interviewers.
I began to regret leaving the first company that had offered me a position and found myself stuck in a cycle of self-doubt.
Finally, at the end of the year, I found a job, but it felt like I was just getting by to make it through the holidays.
Since starting this job, I have been sick with colds for six months.
I am busy and exhausted every day, and my heart feels heavy because I had hoped that my next job would bring me happiness after leaving my previous job.
I set my expectations too high and have been caught up in regret, feeling frustrated and sad.
I went from being confident in myself to feeling self-destructive, thinking I am foolish and comparing myself to a fragile strawberry.
I feel like I am at odds with myself, looking down on myself, and getting angry at my perceived incompetence.
I feel irritated and want to change jobs, but I also fear new environments.
Every day, I feel a sense of urgency to find a job where I can thrive and achieve, which has only made things worse.
Additionally, I have been continuously ill, my immune system has weakened, and my mood has deteriorated, leading to an overwhelming amount of negative energy and inexplicable stress.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/28

Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
Thank you for your inquiry and for sharing your concerns.
From your description, it is clear that you are experiencing workplace stress and recent changes in your physical and mental health that are causing you worry.
However, I believe that your ability to maintain work and support your family during your studies indicates strong work capabilities.
At this moment, it may be beneficial for you to take some time to reflect and make choices regarding your current work situation.
You might consider discussing this with your family and seeking their short-term support.
Adjusting your current job or finding a new one could be a positive step forward.
I believe that after making adjustments to your mood and work environment, many of the discomforts you mentioned will improve.
Of course, maintaining a regular routine and ensuring adequate sleep are essential.
If your situation does not improve and your discomfort worsens, I would recommend seeking an evaluation and consultation with a nearby psychiatrist or psychologist.
Wishing you good mental and physical health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Fang-Rong Chang, Psychiatrist

Reply Date: 2017/05/28

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of stress and anxiety related to your work environment and personal expectations. The feelings of frustration, self-doubt, and the physical symptoms you describe—like frequent illness and fatigue—are common responses to prolonged stress and anxiety. It's important to recognize that these feelings are valid and that you are not alone in experiencing them.

Firstly, let's address the question of whether your heart is "sick." While you may be feeling physical symptoms such as fatigue and illness, these can often be manifestations of anxiety and stress rather than a direct indication of a heart condition. Anxiety can lead to a range of physical symptoms, including increased heart rate, chest tightness, and even gastrointestinal issues. It's crucial to differentiate between anxiety-related symptoms and actual heart problems, which can be assessed through medical evaluations. If you have concerns about your heart health, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination.

Your experience of leaving a job due to a toxic environment and then facing challenges in a new role is not uncommon. Many individuals find themselves in a cycle of anxiety when transitioning between jobs, especially if they have had negative experiences in the past. The fear of repeating those experiences can lead to a heightened state of anxiety, making it difficult to adapt to new environments. It's essential to acknowledge that your feelings of regret and self-doubt are part of a natural response to stress and change.

To cope with the anxiety and stress you're experiencing, consider the following strategies:
1. Seek Professional Help: Consulting with a mental health professional can provide you with the tools and support needed to navigate your feelings. Therapy can help you process your experiences, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.

2. Practice Self-Compassion: It's easy to be hard on yourself, especially when you feel like you're not meeting your own expectations. Try to treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend in a similar situation. Acknowledge your efforts and remind yourself that it's okay to struggle.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being. These techniques can help you stay grounded and manage overwhelming feelings.

4. Set Realistic Goals: Instead of aiming for perfection in your new job, set achievable goals that allow you to gradually build your confidence. Celebrate small victories along the way, and remember that it's okay to take your time to adjust.

5. Connect with Supportive People: Surround yourself with friends, family, or colleagues who understand your situation and can offer support. Sharing your feelings with others can help alleviate some of the burdens you carry.

6. Focus on Health: Prioritize your physical health by ensuring you get enough rest, eat well, and engage in regular physical activity. A healthy body can contribute to a healthier mind.

7. Limit Exposure to Negativity: If certain colleagues or environments contribute to your anxiety, try to limit your exposure to them. Focus on building positive relationships with those who uplift you.

8. Consider Career Counseling: If you're feeling lost in your career path, a career counselor can help you explore your options and identify roles that align with your strengths and interests.

Remember, it's okay to feel overwhelmed, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and addressing these feelings can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. If you continue to struggle, don't hesitate to reach out for professional support. You deserve to find a work environment that is supportive and allows you to thrive.

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