Need help holding down a job for good
I’m reaching out because I’m feeling pretty hopeless about work and could really use some support or advice from people who understand.
I’m 34, and I’ve had over 60 different jobs. I’m a hard worker and genuinely want to be able to hold down a job, but I struggle badly with performance anxiety and becoming overwhelmed—especially when my PMDD symptoms get severe.
When the stress builds up, I can reach a point where I feel like I need to escape immediately. I’ve left jobs because I’m afraid I’ll become rude or reactive toward coworkers, completely shut down, or end up harming myself from the amount of distress I’m experiencing. Then afterward, I feel ashamed and discouraged because I’ve lost another job.
I don’t want to keep repeating this cycle. I want to learn how to work through the overwhelm instead of immediately feeling like quitting is my only way out.
If anyone has dealt with PMDD, severe work anxiety, difficulty maintaining employment, or something similar, I would really appreciate hearing what has helped you. I’d also be grateful for suggestions for supportive workplaces, part-time opportunities, resources, accommodations, coping strategies, or programs that might help someone in my situation.
I’m not looking for judgment—I’m trying to find a way forward and build a more stable life. Thank you to anyone willing to share advice or support. ❤️
@SpiralInfinity
I can relate to the feeling of "I can't cope and I just need out of this ". It can improve.
My suggestion is to work on your emotional management skills in other contexts, and then one day you'll suddenly find them working for you at work. Self validation and meditation were key for me. Urge surfing. The AWARE process for panic and anxiety. Understanding the 5 fs of fear. And talking. The book "Critical Conversations" might help you have productive conversations with your supervisor when struggling. There is another way that's not fight ( anger) or flight (leaving). You can learn it.
Oh, and Internal Family Systems. Really helped me understand how to get out of the cycle.
Good luck.
@Clio9876
Oh, and become a listener here. Learn to listen to people you don't like. Those skills are amazing in a workplace. And here you can practice them, without consequences for your job.
Thank you so much! 🙏
