I am a fool....

[AnxietyDrivingMyLife]

I’m struggling with anxiety- doing cbt but frankly don’t think it’s helping much
Now I’m struggling with health anxiety as well. I work in an industry which started vaccine rollout - I was panicking about side effects/long term effects etc that by the time I pulled myself together the work clinics have closed.

I’m 40 in a couple of months -no known underlying conditions but a ethnic minority. Which I understand is a risk factor. I’m also very scared of getting COVID - which links to my health anxiety. Now with the schools opening and us going back to work I’m really worried. I’m sat here crying at what a fool I’ve been but honestly anxiety is driving my life...I feel lost

You are not a fool. You are suffering from anxiety at a time when all of us are anxious anyway. I haven't really got anything to say to make you feel better as I am sure you are aware of the statistics anyway (and I am rubbish at figures too!). Please don't be too hard on yourself because you are struggling, it's understandable to be finding things hard.

Are you in healthcare? Could you access a carer’s appointment?

Thank you for your kind words @smallandimperfectlyformed

@Howmanysleepsnow I am in healthcare but NOT in any form of patient facing role. I spend my da
us with a laptop and spreadsheet- I’m not sure if I can or not. I haven’t checked. I have a daughter but not a carer per se

Ok.....deep breaths op. I hope they offer one on one counselling via phone or in person soon for you as this might be more helpful. I have found some covid related brochures and booklets on NHS website not sure if I can attach them in post but will try.

In the mean time try to focus on the now, also keeping your self occupied with just basic tasks also helps me keep my mind off the worry. Watching a new series or any show that cracks you up,may be helpful too. And lastly be kind to yourself, eat and rest well and accept your thoughts and feelings. Things will get better and these days will be long behind you soon.

It's worth contacting your employer about re-booking elsewhere or call 119 and ask if there is another way to get the vaccine? I don't think they are turning people away for previously missed appointments.

I heard numerous government ministers and scientist on TV last week stating that if you were offered a vaccine previously and didn’t take it up- it dies NOT matter, you can take up the offer whenever is convenient for you.
I’m not sure how you go about getting it but ask your employer first. (You could always say you were ill or couldn’t make the appointments last time, if you want to give an excuse, but I doubly you will be asked).

*does

Thanks @LizzieSiddal- I will check this out