[Need2breathe]

Hi everyone. I'm new here and have a therapy appt tomorrow but just need some support.

I'm a teacher, and while I won't get into specifics, I had a really rotten year last year. I had panic attacks constantly in the summer just out of fear of going back. I finally broke down and began seeing a therapist who diagnosed me with adjustment disorder with anxiety/depression. I began taking Prozac and Xanax (when I need it) and was doing well... Began the new school year and felt like it was a fresh start. Until last week. Nothing really happened... I just got the feelings all over again. Today I had a panic attack in school and have been crying ever since. I hate feeling like this and I don't know what to do. I don't qualify for fmla and need a job... But am questioning whether I can keep teaching...

[lonewolf59]

I don't know either, I think I'd be better off doing nothing than reaching out to people for help, because it's obviously not working.

[TheOriginalMe]

I'm sorry you're having such a hard time. Teaching is a very stressful job and not for everyone. Maybe it isn't right for you at the moment or maybe it is just the wrong school. I hope you can figure this out with your therapist. Is the school you're working at supportive of you? Do you have a mentor or anyone you can talk to in the workplace?

Good luck with your decisions

[DogTired]

TheOriginalMe had some good thoughts on this - is there anyone at school you could talk to, like a mentor? Does your therapist have any suggestions on this? I have a close friend who is a teacher and has panic attacks, but so far not at work. I'm not sure how teachers keep it all together, it's such a tough job even in the best of circumstances. Is it something you have enjoyed over the years? Do you like the school you're at now? Wish I had some sage wisdom to share but I don't - sorry. But I hope you find the support you need (wherever it comes from) and feel better soon. Hugs.

[Need2breathe]

I do like teaching and my placement this year but admin isn't very supportive. I told a colleague what was going on when I started my panic attack-- thankfully it was the end of the day so she stayed with my kids until dismissal. I also have an appt to talk to my union rep-- I figure somebody should know and if it can't be admin it should be someone in the union.

I know teaching is hard but I was fine up until last year. Last year I taught elementary and was pretty much a punching bag everyday for a student whose emotional needs weren't being met. I didn't teach. Kids in the class were scared of this one student and we walked on eggshells. Now I just can't get past it.

[TheOriginalMe]

Hopefully your union will be able to point you to some resources that can help. You won't be the only teacher who has experienced this. It sounds like talking to the right person will get you back on the right track. Take care and be kind to yourself.