What to do?

[MildredMcDonald]

I’ve been off work for the last week with stress and anxiety. I’m considering going back Monday but just before I did spoke with my GP who said if I was still struggling she’d sign me off. As I feel ok ish what would happen if I did return (last week I self certified) but it kicked off again with work.

Would I then need a Doctors note or back to self certifying? I’m not even sure going back is the right thing but I’m hoping with a week gone over things may have improved.

If you have self-certified for a week and feel you need more time then you need a doctors note. It sounds like some more time will be helpful for you.

I actually enjoy working but management are unfortunately crap. It’s caused me so much angst and with little support I had no choice but to self cert, it’s saved my sanity. My worry is if it starts again and I have to take yet more time off. What do I do? So worried and unsure.

Hi @MildredMcDonald 7 days is self certified after that you will need a doctor's certificate. I would take the certificate from your doctor and have some more time off.
Hope you feel better x

Hi @MildredMcDonald could you look for another job or different post in your company while you're off.

If you go back then have to take time off again you effectively start again and it could be counted as a separate period of leave, depending on company policy

@POTC , thanks for this. I agree I think I need more time off and will continue to actively look for a new job. Such a shame as sadly there is no support from management to hold me there. Thanks everyone.

A week is not long enough to heal. I'd ask for 2 weeks minimum, as you'd just spend the first week dreading going back. I'd look at doing the headspace app, getting out for a walk every day etc. Self care type things.

It’s probably better to have 2 continuous weeks than go back for 2 days and take another week off. Both for you and for your employment record. Get well. Look after yourself.

Even two weeks is not going to be long enough to heal. Have you spoken to your GP surgery about access to counselling? You should be able to self-refer and get some initial sessions which will give you some tools eg self-care and help you plan your way forward.