If you’ve ever felt like your anxiety is taking over your life—so much so that it’s impacting your ability to work—you’re not alone. Anxiety can be overwhelming, especially when it feels like it’s putting your livelihood at risk. Many people in this situation feel trapped, unable to perform at their jobs, and fearful of losing that crucial stability. This is especially true when anxiety grows from something you’ve been managing into something that seems to control everything. I’ve been there, and I know how heavy that burden can feel. Let’s talk about what happens when your anxiety begins affecting your ability to work and, more importantly, how you can navigate through that fear and uncertainty.
The Pressure of Holding a Job While Battling Anxiety
Work can already be stressful, but when you’re dealing with severe anxiety, it can feel impossible to function. Tasks that used to be routine—sending emails, attending meetings, or even just showing up—suddenly feel like monumental challenges. Sometimes, it gets to the point where even leaving your house feels like too much. If you’ve ever felt this way, I want you to know that your struggle is valid. Anxiety, like any other health condition, can impact our abilities, and it’s okay to need help. For many of us, work is not just a paycheck. It’s tied to our sense of self-worth, independence, and identity. So when anxiety interferes with our ability to perform, it feels personal. The fear of losing your job adds another layer of stress, creating a vicious cycle where anxiety feeds on itself. You’re not weak for feeling this way; you’re simply human, dealing with something that’s incredibly tough. Should You Tell Your Employer?
One of the biggest dilemmas people face is whether to tell their workplace about their anxiety. While mental health awareness is improving, not every employer is going to be as understanding as we’d hope. If you decide to talk to your employer or HR department, consider this: You don’t have to disclose that it’s a mental health condition. You can simply say that you’re dealing with a health issue. It’s not about shame—there’s nothing to be ashamed of—but rather about protecting yourself from potential misunderstandings. Legally, your employer shouldn’t be allowed to ask for specific details about your condition (but this might vary between countries). All they need to know is that you’re experiencing a health issue that may require accommodations. This can open the door to taking time off, working more flexibly, or reducing your workload without exposing yourself to potential stigma. I’ve personally found that my doctor is more than willing to provide medical approval for sick days when my anxiety is overwhelming—anxiety is just as valid a reason as any physical illness. What If Your Employer Isn’t Supportive?
This is the tough part—the fear that your employer won’t be understanding, or worse, that they’ll refuse to offer the support you need. If that happens, I want to remind you that as scary as it feels, this situation doesn’t define your future. You will find your way, whether it’s in this job or in a new environment that’s better suited to your needs. There are steps you can take to protect yourself in the meantime. First, consider checking if you’re eligible for disability benefits—many people don’t realize that severe anxiety can qualify. These benefits can provide a safety net while you focus on your mental health. It might also be worth looking into financial support from family or friends if possible. Staying with loved ones temporarily could help save money while you work through this period of uncertainty. It’s okay to lean on others when you need to—it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. You’re taking steps to heal and regain control, and that’s something to be proud of. Taking Care of Yourself First
While you’re navigating the work situation, it’s crucial to prioritize your well-being. Anxiety tends to make us feel like everything is happening right now, and that if we don’t solve the problem immediately, it’ll all come crashing down. But healing takes time. If you need to step back to focus on managing your anxiety, that’s okay. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or incapable. Sometimes, breaking tasks down into small, manageable steps can help you feel a little more in control. Celebrate the wins, even if they seem small. On days when just getting out of bed feels like an achievement, give yourself credit for doing that. If you feel comfortable, reach out to a therapist, counselor, or support group who can help you navigate these feelings while also figuring out how to manage the work stress. Therapy can provide tools to cope, and a good therapist can help you develop strategies to communicate your needs at work or decide on the best path forward. You Will Find Your Way
Even though it can feel like your anxiety is holding you hostage and making work impossible, you will find your way through this. Whether your current job becomes more flexible, or you move on to something that fits better, there are options. I know it’s terrifying to imagine what might happen if your job doesn’t work out, but that doesn’t mean the end of your career. You are resilient, and you’ll find a place where you can thrive while taking care of your mental health. Your mental health is important, and you deserve a setting that respects that. Be kind to yourself as you navigate this journey—there’s no one right way to handle it, but you’ll get through. You’ve already shown so much strength by recognizing what’s going on and wanting to find a way forward.
