I’m really scared to go to work. How do I calm down?

Question

My work has been shut for two days because someone got stabbed outside on Monday night now I’m terrified to go to work. I don’t know how to stop being scared

zeitgeist057 · Accepted Answer

Dont' go to work, and tell yourself you're not going to work so don't worry. Also, you could buy a pepper spray (I think it's a good idea anyway) for about $10 and practice with it at least once wearing a rubber glove and making sure you are squirting downwind (not into the wind) and away from any person or animal.

I don't know where you live or how common stabbings and violence are, but if it is common, you might consider moving somewhere safer and making that a priority. If it is usually safe, then you can remind yourself this is a rare occurrence and you are doing what you can to keep yourself safe.

This is my method, I tend to use logic to talk myself down and make sense of the world. Another thing you can realize is this is very fresh and so it will take you a little while to absorb and adjust, that's normal. Just like when someone dies, or some other traumatic event, we are going to be upset for a while and that's natural, it is okay to feel scared or sad. It will start to lessen after time, it's only going to be a problem if you are still having issues months or years from now, it will be time to seek therapy or find another way to regain peace in your mind.

RawIronhide · Accepted Answer

That's tough. I can only tell you that fear towards any one situation is silly. Being afraid won't stop things from happening in fact it could exacerbate things causing more bad to happen. You've gatta tame that lion so to speak. After I got in a car accident I had a fear of driving but what are you gunna do never drive again? It's not an option you gatta get back on that horse.

Smoke-n-Growls · Accepted Answer

Call your boss and be open about this.

Chances are, you're not the only one feeling this way. And it is your boss' job to make sure you feel safe enough to get to work.

Maybe the company can pay for security or a group shuttle service - and counselling - at least until you and the other staff feel safe.

On a personal note, consider doing a self-defense class or a martial art. You can learn how to defend yourself should you ever find yourself in a situation like that, and that will help you feel safer.

Personally, I think everyone should do a self-defense class. It just helps you feel safer overall - and gives you an idea of what to watch out for and avoid.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Everyone at your workplace will be having the same thoughts. Have they not sent out communications inquiring about their employees? It sounds odd if not if the place was shut down for two days.

Soremain · Answer

Do you know the attacker (s) targeted your workplace / workers, or was it personal and the person targeted just happened to work there?

If it was purely personal and the workplace had nothing to do with it, then there's nothing to be afraid of.

ZackBan · Answer

Think positively, maybe a knife wound scar would give you a charming appeal 😉

But in all seriousness there's no reason to be scared, since a stabbing took place there maybe cops are still inverstigating and so no one would risk pulling a knife

JustinTimberlegs · Answer

Speak to someone at work like your manager or HR, they should provide you with some counseling or something to help. It's a common response to a big event and they usually have protocols to deal with this. Sorry you're going through this, it's a basic human right to feel safe, no one should live in fear. People suck though. I hope you manage to get the support you need.

FinalFantasyBro · Answer

First off I am very sorry your life is in danger, I recommend having a human resource to help you with your job or finding a different job. Do you have your manager at your job, find a way to contact them about your issues you are facing. Remember your life worth more than a job.

iBeowulf · Answer

We get what we deserve. Thank feminism for forcing you into the workplace by giving you unconstitutional Affirmative Action and doubling the supply of workers while halving the demand, thus stagnating wages. People don't learn until the pain starts.

Phoenix98 · Answer

1# Buy a gun ( if they are legal where you live, don't know what country you live in )

2# Buy a taser

3# Buy pepper spray

4# Just man up and deal with it

Those are pretty much your options unless you have company security or someone who can walk you from your car to work and then back to your car at the end of the day.

EternallyCorrect · Answer

If you end up faced by a nutcase with a knife there’s nothing you can do. Look for another job and get out of that shithole.

OddBeMe · Answer

First, if you do get stabbed you’ll get workers comp and a good reason to sue.

PoliteSpeaker · Answer

Stop focusing on what is making you scared because that is the cause.

FilmGuy93 · Answer

Do you have to go in at night? Maybe you could ask someone you trust to walk you to and from your car?

exitseven · Answer

I bet it is in one of the defund the police cities. You should get yourself a Glock and take a gun safety course and learn ho to use it.

siegetiming · Answer

Do you have a friend you feel comfortable around/ safe with? get them to drive you, and tell them why you're scared.

Fuentes · Answer

Get unemployment off them and then find a a new job

Relux47 · Answer

Well my job had to be shut down from March 15, 2020 all the way to June 15, 2021 because of Covid. I was not working that entire time. If you continue to be scared just call the cops

EaterPeter · Answer

What are the security measures you can take? Which country you are in? What is that you are allowed to carry?

t-8900 · Answer

So glad I live somewhere i am able to legally carry a gun lol.

Wise4myage · Answer

Carry a can of mace with you, or if possible, have a co worker walk with you.

AnthonyJ01 · Answer

Why love in fear? Fear makes you weak and able o be controlled.  The governments are using fear to control everyone with this whole virus stuff.

Anonymous · Answer

Chug a shot of vodka up your butthole. It will relax you real nice.

Mofunfour20 · Answer

Solution : accept that bad things can happen anywhere and prepare accordingly. A gun, getting your dad to drop you off, etc.

DudeFromZ · Answer

Have you tried meditatiing, and releasing the feelings you're harbouring?

Anonymous · Answer

Do you work nights? If you have a security guard ask them to walk you to your car.

KrakenAttackin · Answer

Find a different job.

jimmy2 · Answer

Ohhh my well be careful

sponge-bob · Answer

where do you work. Is it normally a bad area?

Anonymous · Answer

have they caught the stabber?

livingnightmare · Answer

carry a weapon

Julious0202 · Answer

buy a gun?

Asianguy123 · Answer

stop being a pussy.

I’m really scared to go to work. How do I calm down?

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How do I stop being afraid to work?

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