ANXIETY DISORDERS/SECONDARY CONDITIONS: MICHAEL’S CASE
Michael had been on stress leave for eight weeks and was due to return to work. He had spoken to his rehabilitation counsellor because his condition, far from easing, was becoming worse. Since being on leave his panic attacks had increased and his anxiety level was very high. Every time he left the familiar surroundings of his neighbourhood he would be overcome with the fear of having another panic attack. More often than not he would have one. The consulting doctor had said Michael was just suffering from stress and that he should think seriously about ‘getting his act together’ and getting back to work. After all, said the doctor, Michael was lucky to have a job to go back to. No one seemed to understand that all Michael wanted to do was return to work. He certainly didn’t like what was happening to him. He had always been conscientious at work and had rarely taken time off. He wondered if he should resign. He thought it would be better than having to face the doubts of his counsellor and doctor.
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