Am I doing everything right re being off sick in probation?

[TinyLittleLion]

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.

In that case. You need to tell them asap and be totally honest about what is going on, what support you need and keep them updated on what is going on.

Declaring it when applying next time as it gives you an automatic interview and protection if you are offered the job.

Call centres can be brutal with regards to attendance because staff turnover is generally high and they can easily replace staff. You’re doing everything right though, don’t quit, they have to follow correct process which may give you a chance to impress when you’re back and feeling better.

It’s not your typical contact centre like the one you’re thinking of (maybe I’ve described it wrong sorry) like I’ve worked in call centres like that but this is a smaller team and they aren’t as strict on KPIs etc it feels a bit different to any others I’ve worked at so that’s why im
hoping it’ll be okay (and why I like it).

sorry to pp, I have already told them about my disabilities before I started.

Only if it’s a disability confident employer, and if you meet the minimum criteria.

If they already know about the condition OP just be honest. I would also say not to push yourself to return before you’re ready. One longer absence is typically better than lots of little absences. Hope you feel better soon