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How do you explain mental Heath issues to your employer?

4 replies

50pcoff · 24/02/2013 09:36

I have had severe pms (probably pmdd) for over 20 years, I'm finally, hopefully getting it sorted out with a hysterectomy later this year. I'm on injections to stop me ovulating and hrt which are making me depressed so the consuktant has suggested going back on sertraline to help me for the next few months. Until they kick in I'm really struggling, spending long lengths of time not talking to anyone, avoiding people etc. it has affected my work, can't concentrate very well, not returning calls and emails and I need a break whilst I get my head around the sertraline.

How do I explain that to a male boss who doesn't do empathy? If I say I've got pms I'm sure he won't understand how bad it is. I've felt terrible this weekend, didn't really get yesterday and could really do with a break this week, I can call in sick, but don't know, what to say, am thinking of saying tonsillitis as it won't need much further explaining.

I was wondering what others had said to their employer when it gets bad enough that you can't keep a lid on it?

OP posts:
50pcoff · 24/02/2013 18:47

Anyone? Is this the wrong section?

OP posts:
PainForLife · 24/02/2013 18:58

sorry didn't wanna read and run... I've got no advise but hopefully someone will be along soon Thanks

Chihuahuas · 24/02/2013 18:59

Hiya. If youve only just started suppresion then your body will fight it for the first few weeks untill it shuts down your ovaries. Or if youve been on it for a while your add back hrt is not strong enough and your menopause systems are breaking through. So in effect your suffering side effects of Current treatment if he asks what treatment just say ovarian supression. Can you say that?

What hrt are you on. If its livial it could be that that's making you feel depressed too x

I'm two years post op for Pmdd

Hoophopes · 24/02/2013 19:14

Hi - as you are suffering from a physical illness, that you are awaiting treatment/surgery for i would perhaps tell him (or HR) that you have gynaelogical issues that you are in treatment/awaiting NHS surgery for and it is impacting you and making you ill and so affecting work? Or side effects of medication? Could you get a sick note from your GP and then it will say on there what you are ill will and avoid conversation.

Do you have any holiday you could take to ease you back into work?

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