Burnout

[radishpatch]

I think I've got burnout, and need some advice on how to ask to take some sick leave. This sounds ridiculous to even ask because I'm not normally someone who needs help on how to word things but it's an indication of how low I'm feeling.

I am currently on a week of annual leave, which I took because I was feeling so run down - and I voiced that to my line manager and colleagues so they do have the context. I've also had an absolutely hellish 18 months in my personal life, which again they are aware of and I have worked throughout to a really high standard and rarely take time off in terms of annual leave which has probably contributed to this absolute crash that I'm experiencing.

This week off has helped but I don't feel 100% still and really think I should take care of myself rather than throwing myself back into what is a very face paced and pressured job. I want to take next week off, but think it should be sick leave and not annual leave because I'm genuinely not fit to work at the moment. How do I word a message to my line manager?! I've never asked for a week off sick before, rather I've taken the odd day due to colds etc. Are you even allowed to say I'm taking the week off as sick leave?? Any advice would be appreciated wise mumsneters!!

Ask your GP for a sick note. Often they will suggest 1-2 weeks. You can discuss what the reason will be on the form. I had this a few years ago and went off with "stress" - it was a toxic work environment and I was going through perimenopause. Good luck

Agree, you need to book in with your doctor.

Hope you get a break and can reset.

You self-certify the first week, GPs here will only provide a fit note after you've self-certified for the first week.

I would just follow your normal sickness absence procedure, which may mean calling in daily for the first week and completing the paperwork on your return.

In future, take proper breaks and use your annual leave - it's basic self-care and the purpose of statutory leave. Ideally take one 2-week chunk a year so you get a proper rest and the remainder in week-long chunks. You won't get the same benefit from odd days.

calling in daily for the first week and completing the paperwork on your return.

This is also better because if you call in on day one and say you're taking the whole week without speaking to the GP it does come across as taking the piss. You don't know how you'll feel in advance and you haven't had medical advice. Your policy may also require you to call in daily unless signed off by a doctor anyway.

Just call in each day and update them. If you think you might need more time then arrange a GP appointment at the end of the self-certification period. Your GP may have a specific webform for fit notes.

Thanks everyone I will message on Monday like I would if I was poorly with a bug or something, and not treat it any differently

You don't ask your manager for time off sick. It's not her call as she's not medically trained (I assume).

Call in on day 1 and say you are unwell and won't be in. You don't need to give lots of medical details but just tell her you have an appointment to see your GP.
Fill in the self certification and send it in. This covers you for up your 7 days.

Get a GP appointment and explain exactly how you're feeling and how you're not coping at work. Tell GP you need a Fit note for a couple of weeks and take whatever advice your GP offers

Hope you feel a bit better soon