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Jujubeezy

416d

This might be a little long but I need context for my question so stick with me, please. Last year I got my first job as a receptionist at an optometrist's office. I mainly got it through connections but it still felt nice to do something that finally made me feel like an adult. However, that feeling was cut short as I had a huge panic attack and the stress was so much that I walked out. Cut to last week, I finally found the courage to apply for a Job. The boss calls me and asks if I have time for an interview which I was so excited about I stupidly said yes. Not even two questions in I'm stuttering and taking a long time to answer which makes me feel even more stupid so I panic and hit the end call button on him and proceed to break down crying and hyperventilating. My mother was next to me in the car trying to console me but it made me feel much worse instead. I just... I have been taking my medications every day, I have been working on coping mechanisms so why? Why did I panic so easily? I feel like I can't proceed with my life because the anxiety is so crippling, it hinders me from moving forward and I don't know what to do and I feel like this is going to happen every time I try to get a job. If not the interview I will have a panic attack eventually! Is there anyone else that can relate to this? Any advice?

Top reply
    • Nevoix

      385d

      Idk if this will help but I had to do research before interviews and I find writing every likely answer to questions and memorising makes it easier to prepare. When in the moment I also heard the tip of just telling them beforehand that "I'm a little nervous so forgive me if I stutter" etc to let them know where you're at and if they're understanding they'll be less harsh. It helps get it off my chest that I judge myself a bit less when I catch myself screwing up an interview but knowing that I did my best to mitigate as much as possible. If it doesn't work that's okay πŸ€—πŸ’• You are doing your best, much love, don't be too hard on yourself

    • Nevoix

      385d

      Idk if this will help but I had to do research before interviews and I find writing every likely answer to questions and memorising makes it easier to prepare. When in the moment I also heard the tip of just telling them beforehand that "I'm a little nervous so forgive me if I stutter" etc to let them know where you're at and if they're understanding they'll be less harsh. It helps get it off my chest that I judge myself a bit less when I catch myself screwing up an interview but knowing that I did my best to mitigate as much as possible. If it doesn't work that's okay πŸ€—πŸ’• You are doing your best, much love, don't be too hard on yourself

    • virgo_1994

      415d

      I completely agree! My previous jobs have not been supportive at all and it's so nice to be in a environment where people understand. It has reduced my general daily anxiety a lot! The only thing that helped me cope when anxiety got that crippling/panic attacks is CBT. I'm sure a therapist will be able to go through some techniques when this happens in the future and help with the interviewing process xx

    • virgo_1994

      416d

      I had the exact experience at an interview and thought there's no way I'd get the job. I sent the manager an email explaining how much I wanted the job and I'm now 2 weeks into my new role! I think I was lucky as its in health care and they are very understanding about mental illness. Just don't give upπŸ™

      • Jujubeezy

        416d

        @virgo_1994 Yeah I feel like most jobs that aren't linked with healthcare look down upon people with mental illness as they feel like neurotypical people would suit it better and not harm their reputation but that could just be my nerves talking.

    • RyeRyeBread

      416d

      this may not be a permanent fix, but, I've heard of some jobs being "immediate" hires, where no interview is necessary... Maybe one of those could be an option until you works your way up to interview jobs? I have only had 1 job, my first one ever at 20 yrs old (3 weeks before I got sick and then I had to quit), but i remember it was such a huge accomplishment for me due to my social anxiety. I'm currently in the process of looking for jobs now, and it is definitely terrifying- but I know eventually we'll get there, and when we do, I'll be so proud of us both 😊 Good luck! πŸ‘

      • Jujubeezy

        416d

        @RyeRyeBread Thank you sm πŸ₯ΉπŸ«°πŸΌπŸ’• I'll try to look in the area and see if there are any immediate hire jobs!

☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision

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Yes, there are people who can relate to your situation. Some individuals with severe social anxiety have difficulty getting and keeping jobs due to panic attacks and anxiety. It's important to continue working on coping mechanisms and seeking professional help to manage your anxiety. Remember that progress may not be linear, and setbacks can happen. Keep trying and consider reaching out to others who share similar experiences for support and advice.

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