How to overcome anxiety and severe stress?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been dealing with some severe stress lately. I got this big promotion at work and am now leading this project. But let me tell you, it has been rough. I am having trouble sleeping. On top of that, I am feeling wiped out, like I can barely keep my eyes open during the day. It is like I have hit a wall or something. I have been hearing about "occupational burnout" and wondering if that is happening with me. I am a 46-year-old male. Could all this stress and anxiety be leading to burnout? I have never felt like this before, and it is taking a toll on me. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I think you are suffering from an adjustment disorder. It is characterized by problems of mood and temperament, which occur after significant changes in personal or professional life. Any change that challenges our coping mechanism is known as a stressor. When our coping mechanisms are unable to handle that change, or in other words, when we cannot adjust to the stressor, it leads to clinical symptoms like sadness, irritability, anxiety, frequent mood swings, anger outbursts, etc. It would help if you wrote down the challenges this new promotion poses.

Is it excessive work or unmanageable responsibilities?
Is the team not doing the job as per your orders?
Is it the pressure from the seniors higher in the ladder of the hierarchy?

You need to identify the problem area and discuss it with your seniors and team. The most important thing you need to take care of is adequate sleep. You may compromise on work, but you cannot compromise on sleep. Lack of sleep leads to several mental and physical disorders, including an increased risk for heart-related and cerebrovascular events. So, keeping your health is the first and foremost priority.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.