Please help - anxiety & massive guilt about calling in sick

[JeremyCorbynsVest]

I suffer from depression & anxiety. It's become worse over the last couple of months and I feel I can't go in in terms of my normal routine, I'm just not coping with day to day life. Aside from feeling v fatigued and tearful I have a dread that something bad will happen to my DS.

I feel like I can't face up to work today (suspect I need medication again and a few weeks break at least) but the anxiety about what 'everyone will think' & how 'they will all hate me' for not going in is crippling me and stopping me seeking help and getting the break I so desperately need.

I'm neglecting my appearance and crying at the slightest thing - unable to sleep ( was awake until the small hours) and recognise all the signs of my depression coming back.

Logically I know I need a break but emotionally I just am not brave enough so I keep going and can feel myself gradually getting worse. Someone help please! :(

Please make an appointment to see your GP today, an emergency appt if necessary, and ask s/he to sign you off work for a while. Also review your need for medication, and so start to break the negative cycle. I know it is not as easy as it sounds, but please just take the first step. Thinking of you.

If you had flu would you feel so guilty? It's the same thing. No one at work will be judging you. Get yourself an emergency appointment at the gp and try and do some exercise or get outside for a bit if you can. Hope you feel better soon.

Will they think it's an emergency though? I don't know what to say to 'qualify' - it takes weeks to get an apt normally. Sorry it's pathetic I know :(

I phoned GP and have been signed off. Thank you for advice. I find the guilt factor and 'wanting to pretend everything is normal' huge barriers to getting help.

Great news - glad you've taken the first important step, and please don't underplay what an achievement it was. I would second trying to get some gentle exercise even if (or particularly if) you don't feel like it. When my partner was off work with anxiety and depression, a gentle walk in the fresh air made a lot of difference, even though at first he had to force himself to make the effort. Actually, good advice for us all!