Everything is getting way too much

[torthecatlady]

Apologies if this doesn't make too much sense. I'm a bit all over the place at the moment. I do have some real life support, such as my husband, a couple of friends and a couple of work colleagues,

As a bit of back ground, I was diagnosed with depression 16 years ago and bipolar about 10 years ago. I've been on many different anti-depressants, and have been off medication for the last 3/4 years.

I am a recovering drug addict and alcoholic which is one reason why I am no loner medicated. My choice, but with the support of my doctor and of my life coach.

I've been plodding along for the last few months. I've been very down and at times suicidal.

I've had some major things happen in the last year or so which have had a negative impact on my mood. Today, something happened in work and has sent me over the edge. Work are aware of my personal health issues.

I now feel I have reached rock bottom and I have decided to make an emergency appointment with my dr to ask for sick leave from work.

I have never been signed off of work sick before so I have no idea how it works, but I really need to be away from my workplace (it is a contributing factor to my depression).

My work have a policy in place, where for every year you have worked there, you get a weeks sick pay. I have been there 16 months, so presumably will not get be getting much in terms of sick pay so will struggle with the bills but see no other option.

I'm worried about money, my relationship, my work life, just everything.

Has anyone else been in this position? How has it worked out for you?

Hi I have been off work for mental health issues a few times, I've been there a long time though so haven't had the issues with pay. I would see your GP and see what help they can offer. I would also speak to your works occupational health department as they often offer councelling etc much quicker than NHS. They can also advise on things like phased return, reducing work place stress and reasonable adjustments.

In terms of how being off sick works, your GP assesses you and if they feel that you are not fit to work give you a sick note for a certain length of time. You let work know and give/send them the sicknote. If you don't feel ready to go back after this you go back to your GP again. Your GP can either extend your sick note or write you a fit note stating that you are fit to work but only if certain adjustments are made e.g. to hours, duties or a phased return where you start back gradually.

Hi there @NolongerAnxiousCarer

Thank you for your reply. I was given a sick note for 2 weeks and have made an appointment to see the dr before it runs out in the hope to return back as soon as possible.

Thank you for saying about the counselling. You've actually reminded me that my workplace do offer that service, I will definitely discuss that with them when I return.

I am going to look into attending "mindfulness classes", by the recommendation of my dr. Not entirely sure if these will be useful as I've tried something similar in the past. But as I've hit rock bottom, I'm open to trying anything!

I've been given a new medication (mirtizapine?) which is similar to one I have tried before. I did voice my concerns. My dr insisted that it will be very controlled and is unlikely to become a problem.

I had good day after my appointment feeling relieved to be heading in the right direction after a very emotional visit to the doctors!

I found mindfulness very helpful, theres a great app called headspace.

I'm just weaning off mirtazapine now, its been very helpful, and not had any problems reducing the dose again. It can knock you out a bit to start with. My CPN said the lower the dose the more sedative it is and I'm finding that coming back off it again now. Also watch out for the increased appetite!

Glad it's been a good day and you are moving forward.