Need help .... Anxiety at work

[vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN]

At my job for the last 2 weeks, we've been experiencing a higher than usual acuity level. I can tell that I'm experiencing symptoms of stress. Nausea. Forgetting to eat all day. Left my car on while at work. I just don't want to be there.

I feel like my job duties are ever expanding, although they really aren't, but in order to do my job well, there's a lot of details I must take care of.

My supervisors have assured me I'm doing wonderfully. But a few nurses (just 1 or 2) have complained about me not doing my work. My boss assured me it's not anything I need to worry about, as this is what these nurses do to others regularly. One of my bosses even told me one of the nurses is known for their laziness, and told me I'm doing great.

I almost started crying when my boss told me I'm doing great because I am trying so hard to be all things to all people at work. My other boss told me I'm not at work to be liked, but to do my job. This supervisor said I need to be more confident.

I can feel my anxiety developing. I don't know how to frame all of this on my new nurse mind. I've been working just less than a year and for a few months in this position.

I'm afraid of my PTSD symptoms returning. I'm afraid of that horrible fight or flight response. I experienced a period of time in the past where I was so paralyzed with anxiety I could barely function properly. I also don't want my anxiety level to increase to where I'm attacking the wrong people.

Any advice on managing this type of work place issue along with a psychiatric problem?

Maybe I'm just paranoid about my mental illness because I work as a psych nurse....

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

Yep, it's time to nip this in the bud.

I am assuming that you have a mental health professional whom you can call or visit when the need arises. If not, find one! You need to be able to talk this out with someone who can offer you practical advice, and meds if need be. I don't think you're being paranoid, I think you're being proactive by not waiting until your anxiety is out of control to ask for help. Please see your MH provider ASAP, as s/he is the best person to advise you.

I know that first year of nursing is tough, and the second one isn't much better. As you learn and grow in your career, you'll become more comfortable and competent; but don't expect to ever know it all, because you won't. Give yourself a break and whatever you do, don't worry so much about what your co-workers think about you. They're too busy with their own work---or should be, anyway---to give you much thought. Don't let them rent space in your head!

Wishing you the best. I know how crippling anxiety can be, and you have my sympathies.

[vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN]

Thanks viva! I'll call her tomorrow. Maybe she'll change my meds. I'm trying not to take it easy at work today, which is okay, since today is Sunday. Hopefully I can find ways not to have so much anxiety at work r/t things I can not change.

[MrChicagoRN, RN]

You probably have access to EAP , who are available 24/7

And take care of you. Sleep, exercise, fun stu#f, etc. Work to develop positive work relationships with at least a few people

And of course call your MHP to discuss your medictions

[vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN]

Thank you for your replies. I increased my dose strength of my psych meds. I asked for a new copy of my job description to verify my duties. I felt better after I reviewed it. My boss asked me what she can do to help me. I didn't know what to say.

I do have some close friendships at work. Nurses I can lean on/vent to/who I help and who help me.

All in all, I hope I can just reduce my reaction to stress so I don't have continued s/sx of anxiety.

Thanks for letting me sound off about this on AN.

[vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN]

Just an update... It's now 11 days after my last post. I am feeling better! I take a different persona on at work. Tuck my head down and do my job. I've tried for more balance between running around and paperwork. It's working!!