AIBU to consider sick leave or reduced hours for anxiety & depression?

[TiredStruggler]

Hi everyone,
Posting on AIBU rather than the Mental Health section for traffic.

I’m really struggling at the moment and could do with hearing from people who have been through something similar.

I’ve been dealing with depression and anxiety and I’m currently getting CBT. I’m also feeling completely overwhelmed and exhausted, and stress at work seems to be making everything worse. I’m finding it increasingly difficult to switch off and feel like I’m running on empty.

I’m wondering whether I should ask my GP about being signed off work for a while, but I’m not sure how long would be reasonable. A week or two? Longer? I’m worried that taking time off might make things harder when I go back.

Another possibility is asking for reduced hours or a phased return instead. Has anyone found that helpful?

I’d really appreciate hearing about other people’s experiences — particularly what helped you recover without feeling guilty about taking time away from work.

Thanks in advance. Please don’t judge me too hard - I’m doing my best!

I was in a similar situation. I rang out work place staff well-being helpline or whatever it’s called and they pointed out that if you were a footballer with a broken ankle you wouldn’t be expected to play football. As my mind was broken and I needed it for my job, I couldn’t be expected to work. Obvs I am simplifying.

I rang in sick and got signed off for two weeks, then another two and another two…think I took about 2.5-3 months off. Which wasn’t really enough and I ended up leaving.

TL:DR I recommend you see your doctor and take it from there

How are your doing today @TiredStruggler?