Should I get signed off sick?

[Sparklethenight]

I'm having a mental health crisis at the moment and even though I didn't think work was causing, I've realised I'm really struggling. A few people at work know I suffer from severe anxiety. They are very nice about it, and always say I can talk to them. However, I took a few days off work (literally 2!) and as soon as I got back I noticed my manager being very harsh on me, another person who usually praises me was being very critical. I've started to spiral due to this and their lack of support.

I feel like I need a couple of days off to get myself to the GP etc. My house is a complete mess and I need to sort my sleep schedule. I'm very tearful all the time and can't cope.

I need to take time off, but the team is falling apart with people leaving left right and centre. I feel I'm being guilt tripped into not taking time off. I feel guilty 'cos I had two weeks off last year.

What can I do?

Take the time off. If you don't do it now, you will need longer in the future. Holding the team together isn't your responsibility. If you're unwell you need to prioritise yourself. Work will cope.
Also, if you suggest to your GP that you're suffering from vomiting due to your anxiety, you can ask that they sign you off with vomiting. Obv would only work for 2 weeks max!

It sounds like you need to take time off but from experience I know that if you are the type of person to feel guilty for taking time off then it could make you feel worse. I think the way you have to look at it is that it's better to take some time now before it really spirals and you become more poorly and end up needing longer off. Ask your GP to sign you off. It is not your problem that others are also off sick, that is for your manager to sort out. If you are sick you are sick. Please look after yourself, I hope you are feeling better soon.

Call the GP and get a doctors note. They can't do anything and your health comes first. As for your manager, they are completely out of order. Ignore them; they can't do anything. Just keep it professional; get the doctors note and call in sick. I'd be tempted to tell them to shuv it where the sun don't shine. Sorry they aren't supporting you, but you deserve support! Be selfish and think of you❤️

Take at least a week, possibly look into anti depressants, I expect once you stop forcing yourself to cope you'll be surprised at how much you're struggling.