The stress of my current job is contributing to weight gain and loss of confidence.

Anonymous

January 16,2024 at 5:59AM UTC

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The stress of my current job is contributing to weight gain and loss of confidence. I have to psych myself up every day to go into the office.

I've had some interview interest but the long process / companies playing games regarding their intentions is making my want vs need to leave my company difficult to navigate.

I've known it wasn't the right fit since moving to the state for the job but with accruing relocation costs and expense of living here, I can't leave without a new job. I've been in a few rounds since November and continuing to apply and interview but nothing has come to fruition as of date.

The longer this goes on, my self worth is taking a nose dive and I know that's impacting my recent interviews. I'm embarrassed that I'm not at my best mentally or physically. I've signed up for the fitness classes again but needed to wait until after the holidays. I'd appreciate the group's advice as the catch-22 situation is making it difficult to move forward. How can I be at my best when I'm starting to feel worthless?

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Krista J. SorensenJanuary 16,2024 at 7:21AM UTC
I just left a job and thought it would be much easier to get a job- i was hasty although the conditions were so bad, I know I did myself a favor. But, I am losing weight bc Im stressed, going to the gym, and eating healthy, too. Planet Fitness is cheap and in my budget rn!
I literally understand your pain. Maybe we should start a business that helps people leaving bad work situations!! I have had my share. Im a smart, happy, hard working human and some people just want you to fail. Ive found leaving is the easy part. Hang on, and focus on doing well at your interviews, stop worrying about your size and help your attitude to be positive. Go on walks after dinner, or on your lunch, bring quick finger foods so you can sneak quick healthy snacks, try the intermittent fasting diet, and try some mindfulness every day that makes you stronger. You got this sister!
AnonymousJanuary 19,2024 at 5:52PM UTC
Every day do one thing that makes you happy and one thing that specifically makes you uncomfortable. Your worth is not about your weight or your job or any of that. Make a list of what makes you tick and what you love and don't love about work. do the same for your life outside of work. Then set focus times to work on the things that make you satisfied and happy and learn to come up with workarounds for things that make you sad that you nay have to endure even though you don't want to.
As for the current role, be sure to take breaks, make those breaks during the day very regular. During those breaks do something nice for you, perhaps take a walk, read a book, buy yourself a coffee and watch the people around you. Take time to breathe and release the pressure you are putting on yourself to be where you want when it may still take time to get there.
Good luck, we are rooting for you!!! This too shall pass.
Rebecca MillikenJanuary 20,2024 at 2:56AM UTC
I've been there! My job is OK at the moment but other parts of my life are stressful and it's definitely showing in my weight. It's tough this type of year in a cold climate. I do what others have suggested, try to focus on the good things and know that everything passes eventually.
Sorry your job is taking a toll. As I said, I've been there--sitting in the car and taking a deep breath before I force myself to go in! I hope you get some good news soon.
AnonymousJanuary 25,2024 at 7:17PM UTC
Thank you all and I appreciated your advice!
kat mobFebruary 27,2025 at 9:06AM UTC
Job stress can certainly affect both physical and mental health. It is tough when it adds weight and shakes your confidence. If low testosterone is part of the equation, oral testosterone treatment can help restore balance. It is important to address both the stress and any underlying health issues, so you can feel like yourself again. https://www.rethinktestosterone.com/blog/stress-and-testosterone