My anxiety is being triggered

[Catkins]

Not normally, no. Although I am usually very active and always busy. Which is probably why I'm struggling with inactivity.

I think they should be OK workwise and let me set my own pace a bit. It's a small close knit team, with an understanding boss.

[pulisa]

That sounds like a very supportive set up to return to.

I would struggle with inactivity too. Would you like to make a phased return pretty soon if everyone agrees that it's a good thing?

[Catkins]

I'm thinking next week might be a good time to start. I had the Tuesday & Wednesday booked off next week (we were supposed to see Kings of Leon in Leeds). So I'm thinking of doing the Monday & Thursday am. Then maybe 4 mornings the week after, then 2 full days and 2 half days the week after that, then back to normal.

This is all with the option of being signed off again if I can't cope.

Might discuss it with GP tomorrow. A colleague/friend is popping round after work tonight so I'll run it past her too.

[pulisa]

It's always a good idea to have a plan and to know where you stand. I think you will feel better if you have something in place to aim for but don't rush things if you find you are more comfortable with less hours for the time being?

[Catkins]

It's always a good idea to have a plan and to know where you stand. I think you will feel better if you have something in place to aim for but don't rush things if you find you are more comfortable with less hours for the time being?

👍

[Catkins]

Well I just thought I'd say this;

TODAY HAS BEEN A GOOD DAY

Yes, I've still felt anxious, yes I've felt very low and unsure of myself at times. But, I still think I can class this as a good day anyway. I distracted myself this morning by reading articles on Buddhism and sexuality. I've taken the dog out twice, went out for lunch, done the dishes, planted some more lobelia in the yard (I only have a small yard but it's packed with pots) and then sat out and had a decaf in the back yard with a colleague/friend from work.

[pulisa]

That's great to hear, Catkins. You've been occupied and sociable doing pleasant stuff. You're going to have low points in your day but it's the overall picture which counts.

[Catkins]

😁

[Catkins]

Today I would describe as fair. Not awful, not good, but fair.

[pulisa]

That's fine though. Aim for the middle ground and you'll appreciate the good days all the more.