Crying at work .... am I bats?

[nevermore]

I was wondering if anyone else ever cries at work - yes, in front of other people, when stressed. I am 43 years old FFS and work in domestic violence & have done for over 7 years. So often there is just nothing that can practically assist women & it's just so frustrating. Yesterday after driving a non-English speaking woman, her breastfed 2month old, her pram which she didn't know how to fold & several suitcases around from Housing Office to grotty B&B, to housing office to eventually return to the matrimonial home because there was no-where else she could practically stay or bear to wait any more I just cracked in front of colleagues (only two thank god) and blubbed. I had so wanted to have a night out with a mate but it just wasn't going to happen & I know other people's lifes are SOOOOO much harder than mine but I feel I'm going mental some days.

Thanks anyone who listened to this rant - I think I just need to get it out but would just rather it wasn't so drippy of me.

Other people at work drink two bottles a night - am thinking a little sob is better than doing that but it's borderline.

I don't think you're bats - you're dealing with stressful situations. Is it possible to find a way of unloading at the end of each day in a short team session to give yourself, and possibly others, the space to let off a bit of the emotion which is building up in your work. I have a brother in law in a stressful job and he finds this very helpful and supportive.

You might also need a break?

But its better not to drink as a substitute for dealing with the stress I agree. We all need at least 3 alcohol free days for the sake of our livers and overall health.

I think people cry for different reasons - I cry rather easily and it does not mean the world is ending. However if I cry at work it is usually a sign that I'm not well - it doesn't happen often but when it does I know something is actually wrong with me, either mentally or physically. So I think each needs to know their own patterns - everyone has a limit, and if crying means you're near your limit, it might be time to ask for some leave and give yourself a break.

I think you sound like a really nice and understanding person.

i would also have a little cry in that situation and hopefully my colleagues would be there for me. Perhaps I'm living in cloud cuckoo land i don't know!!

It's MUCH better than turning to drink or drugs!!

Does your work have a counselling place? I know some emotionally high-pressure jobs provide them. You're not a weirdo for crying, maybe all the human misery is just piling up on you and you should talk to someone about it.

Thank you so much for the support folks, it's so good to have this place to talk to others x am feeling much stronger now & have got a few days off and won't be diving into a bottle.

That's brill, nevermore