Signed off but what next?

[beingoffwork]

I’m currently off work and due back on Monday. I have only had 2 weeks. The reason for this is my mental health, I’ve been really anxious lately and it’s had a significant knock-on effect on my daily life. Taking my foot off the gas has allowed me to focus on myself and find some strategies to ease my worries.

I’m pregnant and go on maternity leave in the autumn, so not for a while yet. I am only getting more and more tired so the idea of going back is not filling me with joy. I’m not sure if it’s general job dissatisfaction or more, but obviously I can’t leave now (or until 3 months after returning from mat leave) or I’d lose my maternity pay totally

DM thinks I should have another couple of weeks off. I would love that to rest and continue working on my anxiety levels, it’s important to me I’m calmer and have a better grip on it before baby arrives. On the other hand I wonder if having more time off just pushes the problem. What do you think?

Anyone?

Just wondering if anyone had any advice

Can you afford more time off and can you get signed off? Or do you have annual leave you can take?

I found having a phased return helpful after being off work for a similar length of time ( mine was for a physical issue and managing whole days on my feet was the issue so I could build up my stamina).

I get full sick pay. I do have annual leave to take but want to save it so I can start my maternity leave earlier

That makes it easier. Be aware that if you are off ill at 36 weeks, then that then triggers the start of maternity leave even if you did not wish to start at 36 weeks,

I think you need to speak to your manager about having a phased return. You need to keep your pregnancy safe as well, so make sure you mention that too. Not sure what work you do but some flexible working or reasonable adjustments can be requested to keep you in work as long as possible before your maternity leave (so you get the most out of it after baby is born)
Good luck x

After a period of time off following multiple bereavements a phased return was really helpful. It helped me get back into the swing of things without feeling too much pressure.

Have you been able to pinpoint the trigger for your anxiety? If it is work related perhaps you could ask for adjustments or light duties for a while (if that’s applicable)