signed off work

[justtryingtodomybest]

On Tuesday I was signed off work for two weeks by my doc with depression. This is the 2nd time (last time was about 6 years ago). Trying really hard to keep to some kind of routine - going to bed at regular time etc. Although I am very tired and usually sleep for at least an hour in the afternoon. I'd like to try to get to the gym as I know physical exercise is important. Only trouble is the gym is at work - but in a separate building. I feel really bad about going there when I should be working. I would hate anyone to think I'm skiving.

OP, you are absolutely right about physical exercise, it does help. But you are already fragile; if using the works gym adds to that, it's better for you to find an alternative.

You can used DVDs for workouts, if you haven't any then your local library should have a selection; or you can get many good exercise DVDs from eBay, Amazon Marketplace or a charity shop for just a couple of pounds. You'll only need one or two. Brisk walking round a park (or the local streets if there isn't one nearby) is good too. If you prefer to do weights, you can use bags filled with stuff, water bottles, etc. A Dynaband or similar can be very versatile too.

Best wishes.

What WhereYouLeftIt said. However, if you really do want to use the gym instead, you could always say what my DP's doctor told me to say when he was in a similar situation- he was worried about people saying/thinking things about him too. He simply said that his doctor had told him it was important to try to maintain as many usual activities as possible, especially exercising, in order to assist his recovery.