To be signed off for two weeks?

[Nowhereelsetogo90]

I had a GP appointment this morning regarding anxiety. I have been medicated for this for years, since I was 19, and medication plus coping skills I’ve learned usually works. This last while though I’ve been insomniac, anxious about stupid things, snappy, fatigued, constant headaches etc. GP has increased meds and signed me off work for two weeks. I’m a teacher and I’ve never ever had a mental health related day off. I feel so guilty and like my boss will be thinking I’m skiving. AIBU to take the time and concentrate on myself?

Of course YANBU. If your SLT are any good, they will be supportive and understanding. If they’re not, look for another job; they’re part of the problem.

Exactly what @TheJackieWeaver said. Look after yourself.

If the GP has signed you off then I don't think you are allowed to work unless they unsign you off. Something to do with insurance.

Anyway a GP has told you you are unable to work. So you should follow their medical advice and look after yourself.

Of course YANBU. If you had a bad sprain in your leg you'd feel happy sitting down to rest. It's exactly the same thing - it's far better to rest and reset than run yourself ragged and end up with further difficulties down the line. Health is the most important thing.

Have you got any strategies for managing your anxiety? I use walks and the Headspace app, there's a free section available on it at the moment and many other apps. I'm an insomniac too and the getting to sleep tracks are really useful.

You are a teacher with diagnosed long term anxiety. You've spent a year in ridiculously anxiety inducing times with an unpredictable timetable, an ever changing work situation and likely trying to help your pupils with their own mental health.

You are amazing.

You know how on a plane they tell you to put your oxygen mask on before helping anyone else with theirs?
Two weeks off is your oxygen mask. You can't help them if you're too sick.