Returning to work

[MrsMuddyPuddles]

How does one tell when one is ready to return to work after being signed off with Mental Health issues? I've been off work with Depression for two months now, and am starting to get fed up with it, and want to be signed on even though I'm not actually well again.

It is a difficult thing to judge but the fact that you're fed up is a good sign - I think that shows your brain is ready to have more stimulation.

I have just started back at work after 10 weeks off. I am doing a phased return which means building up slowly until I finally get back to full-time hours.

Are you doing things at home, getting out and about, socialising etc? There's a big jump from sitting at home to going back to work.

Good luck!

Well I knew I had had enough time off when I started to want to go back to work. Same applied to hospital admissions. Recovering from depression fully takes longer that two months but you are slowly getting better.

I have been going out and about most days, almost every day but the worst in fact. I haven't been doing much, though, as I get quite tired/shakey. Eg cooking dinner takes almost twice as long as it "should".

justtrying I think you're spot on about needing more stimulation: I've started writing a novel of all things, something I never thought I'd have the patience or interest to do!

I know I won't be 100% better when I return that would take far far too long! but what I'm unsure of is what's "better enough"?

I expect a phased return as well, my GP has said as much.

I personally would say you need two weeks of feeling like you really want to go back before doing it. Then maybe contact work and ask on what terms you can return and have a think about it. If it still feels ok then maybe try.

The truth is I don't think you can ever be sure. I've just started edging back to work and today is my first real day of working again. Honestly I'm having a crap day but know I'm better than I was.

Your novel sounds like a great thing to be doing. Put some things on place to make your return a bit easier.

Lots of luck it's nice to just think your feeling stronger

Thanks, cupcake How are you feeling today having started up again?

I've been signed off for another 4 weeks, so at least that's time to write?

Take the 4 weeks and use them well! Enjoy the time if thats possible. Today has been tough was working till 8pm then 3 hrs sleep cos couldnt switch off mixed with pmt and you have a cocktail of anxiety and irrational thoughts resulting in tears.

Feel kind of normal tonight which is a nice feeling.

Hope your ok with the next 4 weeks off, get writing!