Hi Driviin,
Wish I could share your passion in a hobby somewhere! I guess it’s like getting into a great book, and not wishing to put it down, or having crush when I was younger, or having that “aha” moment.
I used to be petrified of driving, but I became desensitized to it, as my overall confidence grew. I can still say that I am choosy about where I park my car, though, but I attribute that to just being petty, since everyone gets dinked in the big city. But then my promise to myself was to just buy a Saturn, which has dent proof technology(but not scratch proof I was told by an owner) as my next car.
I used to have to practise getting to my project site, by driving there a bit at a time over a number of weekends, until I had to actually be there for the project. I didn’t realize that it was an issue until I got over it, actually, and I had addressed many other issues in my life, as though it was a symptom.
Can’t comment on job transitioning though, since I don’t know where I’d be able to do that, and caregiving is a priority for a while. Did you think of getting a position telecommuting, as you work with the driving phobiaMembers,
For many, returning to work is a scary undertaking. We are here to help! Below you’ll find some great tips to help you transition back to work:
- Don’t go back until you are ready. Make treatment your job. Work hard, take the time to adjust to any medications and work through your feelings. You are your first priority at this time.
- Speak with your boss about potential strategies for going back to work. Trying to ease back slowly is recommended. Working from home or on a casual basis can be a great first step. At this time you can also ask about what changes have occurred in the company or position during your absence and who filled your shoes.
- Tread lightly. Chances are your coworkers may have taken on additional projects or responsibilities. They also may have made many decisions in your absence. Be open to them and do take the time to acknowledge & thank them for their efforts.
- Decide on disclosure. Your coworkers may have questions for you upon your return as to your whereabouts or the reason for your absence. Some have found it a relief to be open about it but with the unfortunate presence of stigma surrounding mental health, it’s best to judge each environment individually.