Don't know if I'm well enough to return to work tomorrow or not....

[chimchimina]

I've been off work with stress/ anxiety for 2 weeks now. I had anxiety diagnosed after having DC, it was quite severe then, but 11 years on it's manageable and I take a low dose of Prozac. However, I've been feeling a lot of pressure recently and my 11 yr old Ds recently attempted suicide twice. This was what tipped me over the edge. I'm having to watch him 24/7. He seems to be stable currently but I've been physically and emotionally exhausted and incredibly tearful. I'm due back at work tomorrow and I don't know if I'm well enough. I'm crying at the drop of the hat and just want to sleep. But can function on a surface level.

I should also say I've been unable to see a GP. First appt they could give me is in middle of July, and said they would back date my sick note. So I can't even get a medical opinion.

@chimchimina that's so much on your plate. I can't imagine what its been like having your DS go through that.
2 weeks is hardly anytime at all. I've been off work since February with anxiety/depression.

Thanks for your reply. I appreciate it's a ridiculous thing to ask strangers on the internet. I be woken this morning feeling absolutely exhausted and overwhelmed at the thought of working today. But everyone around me seems to think I'm fine and should go back. On the outside I seem fine I suppose, as I'm working very, very hard in holding it together for my children.

I’ve worked with people who in situations with similarities have been off work for 6 months , please take the time you need to feel a little more able to cope . If you had a physical injury you wouldn’t be doubting the need to recover before returning .

I don’t pretend to understand the pressure you must be under looking after your child , but that alone would make me take longer than two weeks off , I wish you well.

I would take more time off. I don't know your sickness policy, but better to have one long period than several if you have to come back off work. It starts getting into attendance issues with more than one instance which is just even more unnecessary stress.

It's outrageous you can't see a GP any sooner. Is there any chance you could call the receptionist and see if there's anything they could do? Or even just turn up this morning when they open and say you must be seen today?

It really doesn't sound like you are well enough to go back. That is a lot you've had to deal with. Give yourself some time.

I don’t think two weeks is long enough. You don’t sound well enough to go back in. Please call in sick this morning and tell them you won’t be in for at least the rest of this week and maybe longer.

I hope your son is getting some support too. CAMHS?

💐

I think they even though you're not sure yourself if it's time to return, the fact that you are questioning it, perhaps tells you all you need to know.

Your priority needs to be your son and your health . Work can wait.

I think you need more time off given your circumstances. 2 weeks really isn’t that long. It sounds exhausting for you right now.
How’s your son doing now?