CFS -Returning to Work after ill health

[Triffid14]

Does anyone have any advice on returning to work after being off sick long term?

I had pneumonia in March and then chronic fatigue which I’m still having relapses of. I am on a phased return to work soon.

Ideally would like tips on how to manage cfs at work. Any reasonable adjustments worked for you?

Ask to be referred to occupational health. Pacing is the key. Optimise technology to make your working time more efficient. You can also ask to work from
home when possible and have flexible working hours and rest breaks

Thank you

I have extra unpaid breaks, I work 9-6 instead of 9-5 to take extra breaks in the morning and afternoon as well as lunch. The only thing that really helps chronic fatigue is rest.

As above really. I cut my hours and altered my days as well to break up the week so I now have a Wednesday as a rest day as well as weekends off. Changed hours to avoid commuting at rush hour too, much less stressful an hour earlier or later. I work from home where possible plus we have quiet rooms available when in the office so you don't have to be in the big/bright/noisy bit. An understanding manager really helps too! They're happy with me going for a lie down then making up the time later.
Having a meeting with occupational health and our team manager before I went back really helped with setting expectations etc on all sides. Had regular meetings throughout my phased return and also a few months in to the reduced hours contract to review.
Don't try to push through when you're tired, you're likely to make yourself worse and end up needing more time off. Don't pressure yourself to be fully functional as soon as you go back. Having someone (spouse, partner etc) to support you and do all the outside work stuff that needs doing (housework, meal prep etc) also helped me particularly in the early weeks (still does tbf and I'm 11 months back now!).

Also - worth checking how your pay is structured over the phased return. Our organisation only allows sick pay for a week then it's a combination of annual leave and unpaid leave. Was a bit of a shock that one.

Thank you very much @MassiveOvaryaction (love your name).
I think the point about getting partner to do all the outside stuff is good. I’m very guilty of taking all the stuff on myself and then getting annoyed so will maybe ask him to take on more for a bit.

I need to figure out whose doing meals, food shop, daughter admin and house stuff.

Thanks @PotatoFan and @Truetoself I will maybe have a look at adding an extra break in.

@Triffid14 I'm a bit late to the party, just joined and support return to work parents with my programmes.

Organising your time, taking rests, getting support and napping are great ways to get on top of your day, however, I've found through my work that energy management is the root to lasting all day long!

I'm an ex Private PA and working parent and have worked with high performers and I definitely think that working parents fall into this category! The foundation of your day, starts with your evening, how you wind down and process the day just past. Looking at what you managed to do, not what's left (reduced guilt).

Your thoughts can sometimes drain you more than the school run.

Also, look up Circadian Rhythm, it's the body's natural sleep clock. Your body works in tune with hormones, blood pressure and temperature which is influenced by sunrise and sunset. Sleeping in line with this is a magic pill. More important than nutrition.

Finally, nowadays, so many people who lead busy lives know that processed food, alcohol and white sugar needs to be cut out completely. If you're recovering from any illness, healing Mitochondria and building strength in your body is your main focus - creating and using energy wisely during the day, so you can still be there for the family at the end of the day, is key.

Hope this helps!

Btw I gave up my job, because I burnt out as a parent and thought I would use my experience to help working parents.

I've lots more tips on my Instagram.