Anxiety and mumsnet help

[Parmaviolets13]

I posted not too long ago regarding my anxiety and depression and looking for advice.

I just wanted to say thank you to the people who commented. I was given medication - which made me severely ill - but ive been brave and gone back to the doctors today and he has given me something new.

I'm still at a loss regarding work. The doctor has offered to sign me off twice now and each time I have been undecided for fear of what would happen at work. I'm scared that my manager would think less of me or would regret taking me on (ive only been in the department 6 weeks, but been in the same nhs trust for 4 years this year). She is very supportive but I know it's going to get to a point where she will have had enough!

Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you, I am getting there day by day.

Hi coconutty, im glad your meds are working for you, have you had many side effects?
I had managed okay, but this morning I didnt. I got up, got changed, drove to where I park and thought 'I can't do this' and then rung my manager.
Now I'm debating regarding being signed off but I can see pros and cons to both, I think I'm more worried about how they are going to react!

Hi Parma
Well done on persevering with medication for your anxiety, sometimes it takes several different trials to find the right the meds to suit you and you need to give them time to work.
Please be kind to yourself - you are doing well in trying to manage your symptoms and how you are feeling. If work is just another stress adding to your list then it might be best to take some time off sick to help yourself get better. Having some time off will allow you to focus on yourself and will take some pressure off.
I have suffered with anxiety and low levels of depression for years - when you are initially unwell and struggling to cope it can feel like you are on an out of control horse careering towards a cliff.
Consider some talking therapy eg CBT which can help you address negative thinking and worrying thoughts (ask your GP about this but the waiting list will be several mths long unless you can pay private).
Talk and share how you are feeling with supportive friends and family, be honest and explain how things are feeling for you and how they can help you. Even if you don't feel like it do try to have physical exercise everyday (brisk walking, swimming, exercise class) as this will increase your feel good endorphins naturally. Try to get out and about - walk the dog (or a friends dog). Try to start a relaxation class like beginners yoga to help you have a calmer more relaxed frame of mind or buy a relaxation CD and listen to it everyday at home to practise being relaxed.
Things will continue to improve for you Parma and you will feel better, but you just need to be patient with yourself and give yourself time.

Oh Salsa, thank you so much for the message that made me cry!
It's so nice to feel I am not alone, even if I don't feel I can chat to anyone in real life (I do, but sometimes worry they get sick of it) it's nice to know there are lovely people on here.

You're right about exercise, seeing as im not at work today I may take the trainers from the back of the closet and go for a walk.

Thank you for the kind words, sometimes that's all you need to hear