Hi all,
I’m in a bit of a state and could really use some perspective. I started a new job recently and I really, genuinely like it—it’s the first job in ages that feels like it could actually suit me long-term. But I’ve ended up off sick during my probation period due to a flare-up of my chronic condition, and now I’ve been off for four days.
On top of that, I have CPTSD, cyclothymia, and there’s a possibility I have a personality disorder too. I’ve struggled with my mental health for a long time, and this week it all just hit me at once—physically and emotionally. It’s been like a full-on breakdown. I’m trying really hard to break old patterns (I’ve quit jobs in the past when this has happened), and I don’t want to quit this time. But I feel so ashamed and anxious about being off sick so soon.
I’ve contacted Access to Work and spoken to the doctor—I’m trying to do the right things and get support in place. But I don’t know what to say to my manager. I’ve kept my messages vague so far but they are aware of my conditions, just said I’ve been unwell. Part of me wants to explain and be honest about what’s going on… but another part of me thinks maybe I’ve already blown it, and I should just hand in my notice and avoid the embarrassment.
Has anyone been through something similar? Should I just message and explain that I’m having a flare and some mental health struggles, that I’m seeking help and really want to come back? Or is that too much? I’m terrified of seeming unstable or unreliable, but I also don’t want to keep running every time things get hard.
Any advice would really help. I just feel like a mess right now and I don’t want to give up on this job.