A Real Look at Balancing Mental Health and Making a Living
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This post discusses mental health, anxiety symptoms, emotional stress, and the challenges of working while living with anxiety.
📌 Disclaimer: I am not a mental health professional. This blog is based on my lived experience working with anxiety. For medical advice or diagnosis, please consult a licensed provider.
Some mornings, just getting out of bed and facing my inbox feels like running a marathon. The anxiety hits before I even clock in. My heart races. My chest feels tight. My mind is already drowning in what-ifs.
What if I mess up?
What if I freeze during a Zoom call?
What if they think I’m not good enough?
This is what working with anxiety looks like.
🏢 The Invisible Battle at Work
Most people don’t know I’m anxious.
I answer emails. I show up to meetings. I hit my deadlines. But inside?
- I’m rereading messages 3 times before hitting send.
- I’m sweating during a “quick call.”
- I’m talking myself down from spiraling every time someone says “Can we talk?”
High-functioning anxiety means I look capable on the outside — and completely wrecked on the inside.
🤔 How I Manage Anxiety on the Clock
Here’s what helps me stay grounded during the workday:
1. Pre-Shift Breathing Rituals
Before I even open my work apps, I sit with my water, breathe in for 4, hold for 4, out for 6. It helps calm the nervous system before the chaos starts.
2. Text Reassurance Scripts
I keep a few notes on my phone that remind me of the truth:
“You’ve done this before. You can do it again.” “You are allowed to take your time.” “A typo is not the end of the world.”
3. Micro Breaks
If my chest gets tight or my hands start shaking, I take 3 minutes to stretch, walk, or just breathe in silence. No explanation needed.
4. Clear Communication Boundaries
I set my status when I need focus time. I use templates for stressful emails. And I give myself permission to not answer everything immediately.
I am thankful to have found a job that truly cares for its employees — and that has been a big blessing in my anxiety journey.
🧠 What I Wish More People Knew
- Anxiety is not laziness.
- Avoidance isn’t irresponsibility.
- That “overthinker” label? That’s often trauma management.
Working with anxiety is a constant internal negotiation. And some days, just showing up is the win.
If you’re reading this and nodding your head — know this:
You’re not alone. You’re not weak. And you’re doing more than enough.
💜 Need Help Staying Grounded at Work?
Grab my free Peace Over Panic Journal + Tracker to support you through the workday chaos.
Includes daily check-ins, breathing logs, symptom tracking, and space to write out your thoughts before they spiral.