Tension headache from work

[GauntJudy]

I've become a bit concerned as to how affected I am by work related stress, namely that it causes hideous tension headaches that mean I have to lie down all evening. I'm also having terrible bother sleeping.

It's especially worrying as I don't have a typically stressful job. I'm just incredibly sensitive to criticism and it can completely derail my health and my sleep like this.

Today someone made a withering comment about my work. Later someone criticised my management. I felt totally deflated by it, then (once home) teary, then the headache and insomnia.

It's not sustainable. I can't fall apart at every perceived slight. Its probably menopause related, but I'm on hrt, what else can I do to overcome this?

You're dismissive of your response, but if someone made a withering remark, that isn't a perceived slight, it's unacceptable behaviour in the workplace.

I'd suggest active stress mitigation during the day - for example breathing exercises, physical exercises and journalling may all help a lot.

Thanks @verycloakanddaggers, yes I am a bit disappointed by my response. I feel like I should be able to ignore or be less affected by criticism. Objectively I know that you can't please everyone all the time, but I feel quite crushed when I have any negative interactions. I'll look at some of the techniques you mention.

I think your response is natural, personally I wouldn't expect to be able to ignore people being rude and unprofessional towards me.

Its ok to be upset. Perhaps if you can let yourself be upset without judgement it will help.

Good luck, and if the withering comments continue complain to your manager!