There have been a lot of changes within a short timeframe at my job of almost two years and I am having a tough time adjusting to the new expectations and requirements.

8 Comments

1. AnonymousSeptember 28,2021 at 9:29PM UTC

   I would suggest some sort of time off such as a short term leave? This will help to regroup and get back on track as it could put a huge strain on your team.

2. DanielleSeptember 28,2021 at 9:51PM UTC

   Michelle,
   First, thank you so much for sharing this tough situation and reaching out for advice. You're doing exactly what you can do to ensure you are healthy and although it's stressful and your anxiety is definitely high the only person that has to matter is you. Give yourself permission and let your body acclimate to the new dosage.

   You didn't mention your performance or quality of work has suffered, and your employer is supportive so remove the "what if" and keep up the good work.

   Here's a link to the Americans with Disabilities Act. It provides a wonderful overview and explanation of your rights and the legal protections under the law.
   https://adata.org/factsheet/health

   Best,

   Danielle

3. Michelle SerranoSeptember 28,2021 at 10:21PM UTC

   I am capable and able to do my daily job tasks and that has always been excellent. It is my mood that is throwing the office vibes off

4. AnonymousSeptember 28,2021 at 11:55PM UTC

   Another bit of awesome advice :)

   I had not experienced this (not to say I never will) so I wasn't sure what to say. But I couldn't have said it better than you and Rene above -

5. Rene LetendreSeptember 28,2021 at 11:41PM UTC

   (I totally agree with what Danielle wrote, too, by the way)

   Michelle-thanks for being open and vulnerable about your struggle, and for seeking a way to maintain good relationships with your team by asking the question here.

   If I was your team member, I would want to hear you say, "I've been struggling with all of the changes, and I am concerned that my rapid mood changes might alienate you. I do not want to alienate you, but there are times when my best efforts to cope fall short. I am working with my doctor and a support group, and hope that I can work with you, too, to have a healthy, productive working relationship." Maybe see if they have questions for you that you are comfortable answering. If there are specific things that they could do (maybe indicate you should step away from a situation for a moment to collect yourself, or offer to cover for you if you need a minute, or agree to talk about things AFTER your mood is back on track), then ask them to do those things. See if there is anything they want YOU to do that will help them cope with your rapid mood changes. :-)

   We are in a partnership with the people we work with--and we do not get to choose who those people are. I firmly believe that when a team supports each other they ALL benefit. Sometimes that means extending extra grace to someone, especially when they are going through a challenging time. I hope you work with co-workers who are willing to offer plenty of grace and space when you need it, and that those relationships are strengthened by your transparency.

   Keep up the great work of taking good care of yourself.

6. AnonymousSeptember 28,2021 at 11:54PM UTC

   This is excellent advice!

7. Michelle SerranoSeptember 29,2021 at 4:39PM UTC

   This is great advice. I think being open would be for the best!

8. AnonymousSeptember 29,2021 at 12:32AM UTC

   I agree with Rene, you want to be open with your coworkers in the spirit of teamwork and ensuring that no one takes your mood swings personally.