Thanks
Counsellor
It sounds like you're really struggling with your partner being away. You are trying to manage a type of ‘separation anxiety’, and possibly a more general anxiety about being alone. You do have some coping strategies for dealing with this already - distraction (focus on work) is working well for you, as is being wth other people.
You might wish to find more ways to distract yourself when you are not at work - take up a new hobby, watch a good movie, etc. You may also find it helpful to get out socially, and give yourself a chance to make new friends closer to home.
Other helpful ways to deal with anxiety are learn ways to relax and be calm - there are some terrific classes,, books and CDs that teach a variety of relaxation and meditation techniques. Areobic exercise releases endorphins into the body - these are our natural ‘feel good’ hormones that change our mood for the better.
The main thing that generates anxiety, though, is our minds - the thoughts we have in reponse to things that are happening. If, for example, you are thinking “I can't bear it when my partner is away, I can't possibly manage” you will start to feel distressed, and then find it difficult to do something that makes you feel better. You may benefit from seeing a counsellor, who can help you explore this further (using an approach called cognitive behavioural therapy), and work with you on how to challenge thoughts or beliefs that may be creating and intensifying your anxiety about being alone.
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Counselling Psychologist, Psychologist
It can be difficult adjusting to the FIFO lifestyle with long periods spent at home alone. You say your friends and family do not live nearby, what about using the internet to connect with others? There are sites dedicated to the partners of FIFO workers, it might help you feel less isolated if you joined an online community. There are many forums where people are active during the day and night which would enable you to reach out when the anxiety feels overwhelming. The suggestions mentioned above can also be very helpful. If you continue to feel this way it might be worthwhile contacting a psychologist for some more specific assistance.
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