What are possible reasons for feeling anxious and fearful about going to work after a career break?

Doctor's Answers 1

Anxiety is a very common experience. It is normal to feel a bit anxious if you are attempting to do something new or you are entering another stage of your life, returning to the workforce after a long break.

However, if the anxiety is too persistent and affects your ability to work or function, then it will be important to seek help.

When you feel anxious, what do you worry about? Is it about your kids at home or at child care? Do you worry about your elderly parents? Or do you worry about your ability to cope with the challenges at the workplace?

It will be good to talk with a mental health professional who can help you figure out the sources of your anxiety. Conditions like generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder can be readily treated with medications and/or psychological therapy. If you have adjustment disorder with anxious mood, then talk therapy may be all that you need.

It will be useful to practise some relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation techniques and to go for long walks to calm yourself now. Equally useful will be to identify some coping strategies that you can use to deal with the stresses at the workplace.

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