AIBU to still feel like this after returning to work after a long term illness?

[user8699087]

I was off sick for 15 months and have been back 10 months but still feel a bit lost at work and still have very low confidence in my ability.
I was thinking today that surely I shouldn't still be feeling like this 10 months on and that I should be back to my pre illness self.

It can take a long time to feel "normal" after being off for a long time. And since you've been dealing with illness, it's normal to feel lingering anxiety about whether your body might "let you down" again. And maybe guilt if co-workers have needed to cover your role.

But sometimes people outgrow or fall out of love with their jobs while being off as well. Is it possible that you need a change?

@user8699087 - I feel for you. Do you have an employee care package which offers you support? It might help to discuss with them if it's available. I go back to work soon after having cancer (still do really but treatment is finished) and I am apprehensive about it. It might help to think about post-illness what you want from life now. It's common I think for that to change in your circumstances.