Water441

Unfortunately my return to work anxiety has come back. I return in mid January and just last night I was reminded of the stigma and the shame I'll face and it's really getting to me.

I'm trying to distract myself with chores, dog walks, coffee, and reading. Social media makes it worse so I'm taking the day off.

Soberwolf

Stick close to us Water your doing great on day 36 it's going to be ok

Doug39

My last drink was October 24, 2016

The last time I was at work was October 26th.

I have been on leave for anxiety and depression.

I go back to work on February 6th and I am not looking forward to it...but I have to work. My job played a major role in my alcoholism, anxiety and depression but I think I have the coping skills to deal with it and stay sober.

Good luck and hang in there...I feel your pain.

Water441

Hey Doug, I hope you have developed some good coping skills and wish you will with your return to work. Unfortunately, my leave is known to be for alcoholism and facing that when I go back has me in tatters.

I'm thankful and grateful to be going back to a job but I can't help feeling my reputation is in tatters.

PurpleKnight

Hang in there Water, Day 36 is fantastic!!

Doug39

That may be but in this day and age anyone with a brain knows that alcoholism is a disease and nothing to be ashamed of.

My co workers believe I had a nervous breakdown; that is also embarrassing. My nervous breakdown, panic attacks, depression - whatever you want to call it - was intensified by my alcoholism.

Water441

Hey Doug, yes alcohol makes the very thing we used it to dull so much worse. My anxiety overall has improved in abstinence.

How about you?

Doug39

My anxiety is better but I am also on medication for anxiety and depression.

Dee74

Honestly most times these things build up in our head and most times the reality turns far better than we fear.

I hope this will be the case for you too Water

D