Unhappy and stressed at work.

[xelisex]

Hey lovely ladies, I've never really used one of these chats before however I could do with some advice please.

I'm currently 21 weeks pregnant, in full time employment and am really struggling with the pressure of my job role, in addition to the 2 hour commute each morning.

I haven't been at my workplace for very long but when I told them I was pregnant they were very supportive, however, I have noticed they have started uping my targets and piling on the pressure to the extent I wake up in the night having panic attacks and dread going into work. I have tried talking with them but have got no where with it, if anything it's made things worse.

I am concerned that with being pregnant, myself and my partner need every penny we can get, especially as I'm not entitled to statutory maternity pay, but at the same time I need my health and to reduce the stress I'm suffering with.

Could anyone advise what I could do? I hate working here and have no intention on going back to this company after maternity. Is it worth me looking for a new temporary job or is there anything else I could do to tide me by?

Sorry to moan but the anxiety is making me ill :( xx

Have you checked to see if you are entitled to Maternity Allowance? It's the same as SMP just without the first 6 weeks at 90%.

I would suggest holding firm about the targets. What's the worst that could happen if you don't meet them? Perform sufficiently to meet your previous targets.

You are only 8 weeks away from being able to go on maternity leave. Do you have holiday to use up? It could be only a very short time you need to manage, and ultimately, if work is causing you stress, you could go and see your doctor who might be prepared to sign you off. Whether that's sensible financially will depend on how much sick pay you are entitled to.

Thank you. I am entitled to maternity allowance. I ended up going to see my doctor, he has signed me off for a few weeks so hopefully I can switch off a bit and focus on my little man, ensuring I rest enough and eat properly. I guess il go from here and hope the next few weeks become a bit more easier for me. x