Stress Center Peer Support

Hello...wondering if anyone can give some support/advice. It's been a while since I've experienced such fear and lack of confidence. My husband is layed off...like so many other unfortunate folks. He is the bread winner and also works in construction. Needless to say, the construction industry is really hurting now and it looks as if he will be out of work for some time. I'm a nurse and have been working in the school system for the past 5 years. It's time for me to return to the hospital where I can make more money. Hospitals in my area are having a hiring freeze, so ANY job in a hospital will be a God send. Here's the thing...I do have an interview set up for a small community hospital next week...I'm scared all my symptoms of spaciness, feelings of detachment and panic will return. I will continue in the school as I also teach their Health Program and I'm contracted to do until the end of the school year. I'm afraid with the stress of orientation, and the full time+ schedule of returning back to the hospital will trigger all those horrible sensations all over again. I've been doing so great for some months now and absolutely dread the thought of any return of panic and anxiety. I know logically that this attitude will feed the anxiety and bring on symptoms...It's just been really good lately and to be perfectly honest, I don't look forward to the working nites, weekends, holiday thing again. I did that schedule for many years and I love being part of life during the day and having my weekends free to see my kids' sports games, etc... My intention here is not to whine,,,I would be so greatful if any hospital would hire me and I was able to provide financially for my family. It's just returning back to the rat race of crazy schedules and putting so much energy out when I feel already spent most days. This situation is really posing quite a challenge in my mind. Any other folks out there having to jump back into stressful situations before you think you are ready to take them on? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Lynn

Well i am in a similar situation.I recently started having bad anxiety attacks about two months ago.I had all the symptoms also....migraine,ibs,etc.I have been getting better but I am going to basic training in August which I don't know if I will be ready for.It has been my dream to be in the military so I will be going to basics no matter what.If I backed out and sat around here I would feel bad for not chasing my dreams so either way would be stressful.I think you will feel better changing jobs.Making more money would definitely help your anxiety.It may be a more hectic schedule but there would be plenty of distractions if your anxiety did show up.

Thanks Johnboy....I know you are right...I don't want to let this anxiety rule my life anymore...the next step is to move on regardless of my fears. Good luck to you and your journey and please be safe.

Lynn

I have studied economy as a part of my degree and all I can say is what you see right now is nothing "un-natural" it is a part of the capitalist economic cycle and is not here to stay. We havn't run out of oil, we havnt been hit by aliens and nothing big has been blown up. It's the consumer confidence and although it is not the best of times right now once the consumer confidence is restored the economy will start it's up-cycle again.

As for anxiety the best method I have found for myself is replacing "what if" with "so what". Get a bit of attitude. Do you really think everyone around you actually acts wise 24/7? If anyone has to be anxious and feel dumb right now its that idiot Geroge Bush for the mess he created, certainly not you.

You will be fine with the interview. Have some confidence. It's only an economic down-cycle not the apoclypse.