Signed off work & feeling poop

[StressedAndBurntOut]

As title suggests saw dr (at first thought might be early menopause though I also knew I was super stressed) now seen counselor/psychologist and have been signed off work. I'm in denial a bit as I know I've been overworked & running on empty & struggling to keep all the plates spinning but didn't really expect to be signed off.

Clearly need to use this time to work on getting me to a better place - suggestions, resources, ideas welcomed. I don't like being this person who has no resources to deal and has become inefficient. Admitting this is maybe a part of it so while I almost feel ashamed I'm also glad I finally went to seek help. Any advice from anyone out there who has managed to get your heads back together again after burnout & stress please let me know thoughts on how to work through this effectively. Thanks in advance.

Other than being signed off are you receiving regular counselling or been prescribed any medication? I would say take the time off work to balance the other plates you spin, maybe catch up on housework or home admin, and then take time for yourself, regular mild exercise such as walking or swimming, try a yoga class. Take long baths, use face masks, go for a massage, get your nails or hair done. Recharge your batteries basically.

I was signed off for a month and went back after five weeks feeling a different person. A lot of underlying worries and health problems had taken their toll, plus overwork.

It's easier to tell you how I spent my time. Tidied up. Ate well. Reset my sleep. Had siestas. Massages. Joined the local sports centre and tried different classes. Did all those appointments that I'd been putting off (dentist, mortgage renewal, physio etc.). Had some long afternoons out at national trust places, with family/friends. Did a few hobbies I hadn't done for a while. Read about nutrition. There is a thread under mental health about Doing one new thing every day - you don't have to join it, it's a great thing to do though. The main thing is getting into a healthy routine that you can keep up when you go back to work. I also had a short course of telephone counselling.

I haven't fixed all my problems - fertility, financial, but anxieties are 'in their place', and I feel much more resilient and happier. Good luck OP.

Thanks for answers. No ongoing counseling planned but perhaps I will ask.

So far today has a long bath & took dog for a long walk, haven't managed much else, maybe that's kind of the point though. Oh well, will try to get a few non work things in order & plan some self care time

I really ought to be on commission, but I genuinely recommend you read "Depressive illness, the curse of the strong" by Dr Tim Cantopher