AIBU to feel so anxious

[user526282]

Just before lockdown I was diagnosed with cancer (fairly easy to treat) and I have been off work since.
I’m due back on the 24th August and and I want to go back because I want some normality back in my life but I don’t think I can as I’m feeling so anxious about everything.
I don’t know if my treatment has worked until November so that’s constantly on my mind, I’m scared about going back to work as everything will be so different now with Covid-19.
I feel like I’ve been putting pressure on myself by having this date set in my mind if when I am returning but now it’s getting closer I don’t feel ready and feel anxious about everything.

I think anyone in your situation would feel anxious
Have you spoken to your manager about how your feeling? It’s best to take as much time as you need to recover maybe ask your GP to extend your fit note

No haven’t spoken to my manager, she is news and started after I went off sick. I just don’t know what to do I’m so worried I’m going to lose my job

Have you received the treatment and been signed off by your oncologist as fit for work? I'd potentially speak to them about your concerns and see what they advise.

@Fatted I have received treatment in June, it’s my GP that has been signing me off not my oncologist. I just request a fit note online through GP

YA absolutely NBU given all you've been through! Many people are anxious about returning without having had cancer.

I think you need to talk to your consultant and your manager.

Are you anxious due to health or just due to changes?

A phased return sounds a good idea perhaps, just pop in for an hour the first day. Also maybe ask your manager to give you a zoom tour? We had lots of photos circulated of the changes before going back, it did help as I knew what to expect.

for you.

@latticechaos I think I’m anxious due to both health and changes. I have my first follow up appointment on 21st August and I’m worried about that and then back to work on the 24th so it just feels like a lot is happening al at once.
I told my manager and Occupational health a month ago that I thought I would be ready to return after the appointment but as it getting closer I don’t feel ready at all.

I have my first follow up appointment on 21st August and I’m worried about that and then back to work on the 24th so it just feels like a lot is happening al at once.

I think it feels like a lot because it is a lot!

My workplace is large and some people returning had big emotional reactions, just on the work feelings alone.

I agree with @latticechaos

I returned to work after 3 months off due to covid and felt anxious enough I wouldn't of been able to cope with any extra stress like you are.
I think a lot is happening to you in the space of a week, it seems a lot for you to deal with.

I would TRY not to think or worry about returning to work until after your appointment on the 21st. Then discuss it with the consultant.

If you're not ready to return, can you WFH at all?

I'm glad you were able to have your treatment done during all of this. Good luck for a good result in Nov 🌷

@IncrediblySadToo I have been trying to not think about my return to work but the thought keeps creeping back in!!

I can't wfh wish I could as that would help me a lot.

I just hate this feeling of anxiety all the time, I have never been an anxious person, I just want to feel like my old self again.