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How do you cope with working w/panic attacks& agoraphobia?

User Profile: JarofSeeds627
JarofSeeds627 February 21st

I have been unemployed since April 2022. Agoraphobic since I was 13. I really need to get a job but I've been living off family/friends and just can't do this anymore. I am so terrified of working especially with negative experiences in the past at work. I went to therapy September 2022-2023 before she had to leave and I was more focused on childhood trauma and reducing panic attacks themselves. I've made progress but the thought of even filling out an online job application makes me freeze. I will procrastinate months at a time between each one. And I know I have to work harder.


I don't want to be on disability because legally and financially it sucks and I want to marry my boyfriend without all of the implications that go along with that. I do have genetic spinal disorders that might make me Disabled™ in 20+ years anyway so I'd rather wait lol. But I'm working on my health and I need to celebrate my wins... And grow up..


I am on waitlists for Medicaid therapists and psychiatrists but obviously I can't afford a private one. My primary care gives me Prozac which has helped me (take walks, go to the store, go to classes) but she isn't allowed to prescribe anything stronger. I would need a psychiatrist.


I graduated with my associates in Paralegal December 2023 but I only have some retail stock experience. My paralegal internship in summer 2023 went awfully especially due to my anxiety. My goal would be something like stocking again (less customer interaction) before I have the confidence to work more professionally. I *really* need to work on my confidence especially if I'm working in a professional legal context. I have, like, no social skills. I am worried I may only be able to do academic work not actual work.


But what if I have a panic attack at work? What do I even do? I don't want to get yelled at again. I don't even want to do any of this. Looking for a job is so hard on me mentally. Filling out applications and interviews wrecks my self esteem. I just feel so horrible about myself honestly especially being unemployed for this long over this.

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User Profile: Jem7Cups
Jem7Cups February 22nd

It sounds like you've been through a lot, and I think it's really brave of you to reach out for help and talk about what you're going through. 


It's totally normal to feel overwhelmed about going back to work, especially if you've had a rough time in the past. Just remember, progress takes time and even small steps count. Have you thought about talking to a career counselor or therapist who knows about workplace anxiety? They might have some tips to help you deal with panic attacks and feel more confident at work. 

Your well-being is super important, so don't forget to take care of yourself while you work through this tough situation 🙏🏻