sick leave?

Question

ok, i have so far posted questions about bank hols, cctv, a lycra body suit, and a bad socail life.
now heres one that i have had much advice from both my manager, my parents and other members of my family.
Because im so low, and stressed out and depressed (all things connected) my doctor has offered my a sick note. i refused as i honestly think that it wouldnt help, but slowly things have been getting worse and my manager says that i should maybe take a week off and see how i feel (but i dont want to let anyone down) my parents say they would help me money wise if i decided to go on the sick, and other family members seem to think that i would just sink lower and lower.
what would you do if you were really unhappy and it had start effecting your work? would you take time out to sort yourself out? or just get on with it? because im starting to think i made the wrong decision now :S

Answer 1

Hi Nichola

I understand your dilemma, as I've been there myself, on more than one occasion!!

Your Dr wouldn't have offered you the sick note unless he thinks that you need the time off, so don't feel guilty (I know that is easier said than done), you are entitled to sick leave for your illness just as anyone else would be.

Work is work, and unfortunately none of us are indispensable so I'm sure that they will manage without you for a while, and if your manager also thinks it's a good idea, then maybe it is.

You deserve to take the time to help yourself, and it sounds as though now is the time to do it.

As others have said you need to be careful that you make sure you have something to keep you occupied while you are off. Staying in the house, wouldn't help and may cause your depression to worsen. So try and thing of some things that you can do which will keep you active.

Try this link to the Mind website -

Understanding depression:
http://www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/Understanding/Understanding+depression.htm

the information is easy to read and understand.

I would also suggest finding your local mental health charity:

http://www.mind.org.uk/Mind+in+your+area/

They are easy to access and you can refer yourself, it only takes a phone call.

When I had periods of sick leave I found that having a place to go was a great help. People there are understanding and will offer you support and guidance. It will give you a reason to leave the house, but somewhere you can go where you won't be judged, and where you can choose to join in activities if you want to.

It will also give you another support network which you can use as and when you feel you need it.

Why not try contacting them and asking what they can offer to help you before you make a decision about work? That way you will have something in place.

You have the support of your parents, your manager and your Dr and they all agree that having time off is worth a try, so why not take them up on the offer and give yourself a rest for a little while.

I hope this helps.

Take care and good luck.

Answer 2

When I had depression, I couldn't be treated due to the fact I already have epilepsy. I was told antidepressants increase seizure frequency. He wouldn't sign me off so I therefore had to work but found that my low mood dragged others down as well. Therefore if I were you, I'd take a few days off as suggested by your doctor. He may then may be able to actively treat your depression. Don't feel guilty about being away from work. They would much rather have you there in a good state of health and able to work to the best of your ability. For the amount you've been suffering, you deserve the break. I wish you the best of luck.

Answer 3

I would have to say don't take the sick leave. I also suffer from depression/anxiety and when I have days with nothing planned and no schedule I get a lot worse. I think it's better to keep moving. Time alone may mean rest for some people, but for the minds that don't stop, it can be frightening!

Answer 4

it might be that taking time off might make you more depressed sitting at home & u might lose ur confidence as well.
Otherwise, if u plan it carefully, as to what you want to achieve by coming off work, such as doing a paiting project, taking time off somewhere for a few days if u can afford (it does wonders I promise, I recently went to Glastinbury for a few days & when I came back I was a different person)..
or spending time with family or taking time out in nature, one week can do you some good.
i think take aweek off, think of it as a holiday & go back to work refreshed.
I pray the angels & God help you feel better soon..
with luv Merry Christams

Answer 5

Well my husband has just been signed off sick for 2 weeks for depression/anxiety and it has helped him enormously to recharge, take stock of his life and most importantly - rest. Depression is serious, you need to look after yourself - take the doctor's note for however long he feels appropriate to sign you off work for. Explain to your doc how you feel about letting work down.

My husband is "gradually" going back to work, one day in one day at home, that kind of thing. But its gradual. Take one day at a time. best wishes to you

Answer 6

Take the time off, don't worry about the money you'll still get sick pay.
Think about yourself and do nothing stressful for a week.
Good luck