Chronic Anxiety

[themimi]

What does it feel like? I'm lying in bed with a feeling of panic in my chest. It's always like this when I have any down time. My working week is insane (12 hour days plus commuting on top). I'm in a job which doesn't give any time for thinking. This means I don't have time to feel like this during the week but the minute I stop the panic comes back. I'm worried about so many things - some things important, some less so. All about things that might happen. Is this what chronic anxiety feels like?

Yes, it’s anxiety, doing those long hours is bound to cause you stress. Does the job have those contracted hours or are you having to do 12 hours to get the work done, if it’s the latter, then you seriously need to talk to your employer about this. Ultimately if you were to go to GP their advice would be to look into anything that can make you less stressed, exercise, walking, time for socialising, meditation, calming exercises etc.

Thanks. It's a public sector job that is renowned for being crazily stressful. The pressure and high stakes accountability is insane. But I do love it and want to make a difference but it is relentless. I am fine with during the week, just wish my brain could switch off at weekends. When I am not working I think the feeling is guilt.

Bump

I would say so. It sounds like your mental health isn’t great. Is there any way you can cut your hours or take a step back in some way? I would go to your GP as a starting point.

Things like mindfulness and exercise can really help with anxiety but I think it’s important you see your GP and take steps towards safeguarding your mental health. Good luck.