After being made redundant from a job I had held for several years, I received a severance package which gave me the opportunity to travel for a while. When I returned, I was fortunate to receive two job offers and accepted one.
Not long after starting the new role, I became unwell and had to take some time off. I returned to work, but about a month later, I experienced a more serious health issue that again required extended leave. Despite my short tenure, I was able to retain my position.
Upon returning, I faced significant pressure from my manager to perform at a high level, even though I was still recovering and not at full capacity. I did my best under the circumstances but struggled to meet expectations. The work environment was difficult, and it soon felt as though I was being targeted.
In an attempt to cope with the overwhelming stress, I made some poor decisions and began engaging in substance use during work hours. This included leaving the office under the guise of lunch breaks to participate in activities that were not only unprofessional but deeply harmful to my well-being. I would often return to work still under the influence.
