Managing Anxiety About Returning To Work
Heading back into the workforce after a prolonged absence can be daunting for anyone. Time away from employment due to a disability often brings unique challenges. Even for workers simply changing jobs, reentering the job market can be stressful. Still, there are many ways individuals address anxiety and maintain productivity while moving forward.
Those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) who are considering a return to work have options for easing the transition. The Ticket to Work (TTW) Program, for instance, offers incentives for returning to employment, along with access to assistance from Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies and Employment Networks (ENs). These services, which may include resume building, interview preparation and job search strategies, can help strengthen efforts to rejoin the workforce.
Employment-related worries may be common, particularly for those managing higher support needs, potential medical setbacks or limited resources. Feelings of uncertainty about one's ability to maintain employment — or concerns about losing benefits — are natural during this phase.
Recognizing and understanding anxiety often serves as an important first step.
Developing Greater Self-Awareness
Identifying behavioral signs of anxiety — such as physical restlessness, changes in eating habits or a sense of dread — may provide useful insights. Some individuals choose to observe when these feelings occur and what situations seem to trigger them. By becoming more aware of these patterns, it may be possible to develop strategies to manage moments of heightened stress.
Planning and preparation, even when uncertainty cannot be entirely eliminated, can sometimes help replace anxious feelings with greater confidence and focus.
Managing Anxiety Through Daily Practices
Understanding personal triggers may open the door to new ways of responding to anxiety. Some people incorporate daily routines, organizational tools or mindfulness practices to help create a sense of stability. Others find that hobbies, exercise or other fulfilling activities contribute to mental clarity and balance.
Adjusting perspectives — such as recognizing that perfection is not required and that setbacks may offer learning opportunities — also plays a role for many individuals navigating change.
Building a Strong Support Network
Support systems often include a combination of personal contacts, peer groups and professional resources. Family, friends, mentors and peers can offer emotional validation, encouragement and a sense of belonging. Support groups may provide shared experiences, relatable role models and a safe space for expression. Professionals, including therapists, case managers and healthcare providers, often deliver critical services that assist individuals in reaching their goals.
Where gaps exist in a support system, exploring new connections might offer additional strength and resilience.
Exploring the Ticket to Work Program
The TTW Program can serve as an important resource for individuals receiving SSDI benefits. Features such as the Trial Work Period (TWP) allow participants to test their ability to work while continuing to receive benefits. Enrollment in TTW may also result in the suspension of Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), reducing administrative pressure during this transition.
After the TWP, the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) allows for the continuation of benefits during months when earnings fall below certain thresholds. Medicare coverage also generally remains available for up to seven years after returning to work. In cases where a medical setback occurs within five years after the EPE ends, Expedited Reinstatement of Benefits (EXR) may allow individuals to quickly restore SSDI benefits without reapplying.
Advocating for Yourself
Returning to work often brings opportunities to develop self-advocacy skills. Becoming familiar with rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and understanding options regarding disclosure of a disability may empower individuals to navigate employment decisions more confidently.
Some also choose to learn more about reasonable accommodations and how to address disability-related topics during job applications and interviews, depending on their comfort level and situation.
Viewing the Process as a Journey
Returning to work after a significant absence represents a meaningful challenge. While setbacks are possible, each step forward can also present opportunities for growth and renewed purpose. Anxiety may be part of the journey, but it does not have to define the destination.
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