I've successfully made it back to work!

[KeemaNaanAndCurryOn]

I don't know if anyone remembers my thread Here when I was in Crisis and admitted to a secure unit, but in case anyone did, I thought I'd update.

I set myself the target of getting back into work by September and this week I did just that. I'm phasing back in and my manager has been an absolute gem in arranging something that will work.

I've done my first day and it went really well. It was actually good to see my colleagues after such a long time and have important discussions like which is the best type of donut. When you've talked of pretty much nothing except mental health and things to do with the children for 7 months, its good to have conversations about projects and reports and donuts.

I'm still on huge amounts of meds and am still being cared for by the CC&TT, but I made it back to work and I didn't fall to pieces.

I just thought I'd share as I am actually feeling rather proud of myself and its good to know that MH problems (Bipolar in my case) and hospital admissions don't mean the end of being able to work.

Congratulations - it's fantastic that you've met your target and your employer sounds really supportive.
look after yourself and do accept all accommodations/support they're willing to offer.

Thanks :) The last two times I tried to go back to work, it all went hideously wrong. It was after the second time that I ended up having a complete breakdown and was admitted.

I breathed a huge sigh of relief when it went well this time.

Yay! You can do it!! Take it one day at a time, be friendly, don't gossip, don't take on more work than you can handle and keep job lists/notes so you don't worry about forgetting anything.

Remember that at work we all have rotten days and run-ins but you can handle it.

Keep up the good work!

Oh Keema, this is brilliant! So pleased for you :)

Thanks for posting

I know people go to work every day, but it really feels like I've got over a huge hurdle and am actually looking forward to my second day tomorrow.

It IS a huge hurdle and YOU got over it, well done!

So, so bloody proud of you Keema. I've had my own (v mild in comparison) MH/work issues and am in awe of you handling your stuff the way you have.

Also - are you in the Union? If not, join ASAP.

Just wanted to add my support! Well done

Thanks everyone!

NinthWave, yes I've joined the Union now as while I'm hoping that I won't relapse, or that I'll have any trouble with work, I'd be foolish not to be prepared for the worst.

I'm starting one of my set tasks tomorrow and writing technical documents, which may sound dull, but its the basic bread and butter of my job so its good to start off with something that I can't fail at, rather than getting straight into any major projects.

Just new to your thread Keema & read your previous one highlighted above. I am really pleased for you, that you are making good progress and yes it is a massive step to go back into work. Well done to you & glad that your employers have been supportive.

That's lovely to read ... congratulations ! It's good to hear employers can be supportive, I'm sure it makes a huge difference. I feel pleased for you, good luck with it all ... and the donuts !

I'm so pleased to hear that it all went well for you. You have done so well. That's great that your employers are very supportive.