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Staying in work

watcher1970New Contributor07 Apr 2025, 8:59 am AEST

Staying in work

Hello,

I am looking for some help with staying in work... I have been in and out of employment over last 10 years (diagnosed with severe depression and a dissociative disorder). It seems I last around 3-6 months before work overwhelms me... I am not good at saying no, and employers love people who are willing to work hard and take on things other people say no to... I just left a government job a couple of weeks ago because half the team resigned and they gave me their work, in addition to my own... I tried to cope for a couple of months (worked many hours overtime a week) but it got too much in the end.

I really would like some assistance/advice on what I can do to stay working... As I said, I am bad at saying no, and unfortunately the jobs I seem to end up in a very fast paced with little or no support from management (the work needs to be done so just get on with it, is the most prevalent attitude)...

I am applying for work again, but so afraid that I will only last a short time again... any advice would be so greatly appreciated!!!

4 replies

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In response to: Staying in work

GardensHeartSenior Contributor07 Apr 2025, 9:11 am AEST

Re: Staying in work

Hi @watcher1970 ,

Welcome for joining us here.

Thank you for sharing. Sorry to hear you are struggling to keep a job. Perhaps you can try to see if your next work place has any employee assistance program so you can have some support?

We hope our other members here are able to provide you with some support and advice.

In response to: Staying in work

AqualemonadeContributor07 Apr 2025, 6:39 pm AEST

Re: Staying in work

Hi @watcher1970

Sorry to hear you are struggling to stay in employment. I don't really have any great advice, as, I am in a similar situation. I also am a people pleaser, and will work well past my limit.

I just had 3 weeks off due to burnout. I am fortunate to be able to work from home. This requires a lot less energy than having to go into the office. They are giving me flexibility to just work to my limits. I am still learning them, but, I managed to do 6 hours today.

Moving forward I am solidifying my boundaries, and saying no. I have also requested to permanently lower my hours, because full time is no longer sustainable for me.

We can't serve from an empty cup. It is difficult in this economic climate, but, we really do need to put ourselves first.

All the best!

In response to: Staying in work

NoahAUNew Contributor08 Apr 2025, 1:49 pm AEST

Re: Staying in work

Hi, it looks like all you need to do is learn how to set boundaries and say no. I'm sure it will benefit you in all kinds of ways, not just at work. There are heaps of resources on boundaries and saying no. Sending you good vibes and well wishes, you can do this!

In response to: Staying in work

MissCheekyContributor25 Apr 2025, 1:36 am AEST

Re: Staying in work

Hi gorgeous Please don't give up you have got this! If it makes you feel better I'm 50yrs old and my CV is crazy. The first step is to work out your passion and interests and just go for it. I did this and stayed in the job for 7 yrs. Good luck sweetheart!

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