How do you turn things around when you’re running on empty?

[NeedAnUpgrade]

Have had a stressful few years and just feel completely burnt out.

Eldest DD is awaiting an ASD assessment and is only in school part time. Youngest DD doesn’t really understand as she’s only 7 and doesn’t see why she has to go to school so we have a daily battle getting her in.

We had a restructure at work a while ago which has made things a bit shit. In our last meeting my boss suggested some training that would be useful if I was to leave.

I’ve also put on about 20lbs as my diet is shit. I started doing some exercise but have hurt my ankle and it now swells up if I spend too much time on it.

We also moved a couple of years ago and don’t have any support network where we are. I’m not even sure I have the energy to put into new friendships so don’t really have anyone I see regularly other than DH.

I just feel a bit meh, about everything. I know the things I should do but can’t seem to get the energy or drive to do them. If I had the opportunity to just stay in bed for 6 months I’d take it. I hate feeling this way. Has anyone else felt like this and got out of it? What do I do? I’m doing the bare minimum for everything as it is, I can’t really do any less.

It's not possible for everyone, but honestly, I got signed off work for 3 months and I rested and recovered. It was actually incredibly stressful at the time worrying about work building up and if I could afford it (work ended up paying my full salary while off sick, but it wasn't clear at the time if they would continue to do so), but looking back, it was 100% the right thing to do. I had a phased return to work and am in a much better place physically and mentally now as a result. I used that time off to rest and to get myself back on track physically - exercise, lifestyle changes, etc.

Start with a one week diet reset and do some walking (if possible try swimming because it’s low impact for your ankle - maybe a water aerobic class). Just one week at a time so it’s not over whelming.

I say this as someone in a similar position - work is okay now but I had 18 months of an awful situation and I tried to leave but no success so have stuck it out and things are much better. However, I’ve put on 2stone and would happily sleep all the time (my ferritin levels dropped to 6 so maybe get yours checked). I know I felt better being active so I’m trying to get back there. 3lbs off this week (but we’re going for a pub lunch 😩🙈).

@mindutopia glad the time off helped you and you were paid. I think that’s my last resort if nothing else works. Just don’t want to have that on my record if I’m going to need to get a new job soon.

@TeenLifeMum well done on your weight loss. I probably need to take smaller steps and change things more slowly. I’m not particularly patient, which is why I ended up hurting my ankle.

Sorry you are having such a tough time.

Baby steps is the way forward?
Easy wins might be to start taking a high strength multi vit to recharge and a cup of green tea to kick start your metabolism.

Then short walks daily.

@NeedAnUpgrade i keep starting and stopping after day 4 🤦🏻‍♀️ I can run 5k in 33 minutes but I’m 12st 8 and only 5’4”. When I was 10st 8 I was happier with myself, had more energy and was less invisible at work. I really need to change it around.

I think a day at a time making better choices is the way forward. Good luck!