Signed off, feel guilty

[lavenderboux]

In a nutshell, stress at work came to a head recently and my GP has signed me off for a few weeks. I know that having some space is the right thing for me as I was on the cusp of a total breakdown, but I cannot shake the feeling of guilt. Guilt that the team are a person down, guilt of the work that will be building up etc.
I know deep down that I need to use this time to relax and recharge the batteries, and to have a think about what it is that I want/need going forwards. I'm not even sure what I was looking for out of this post, other than a space to get these feelings off my chest.
Has anyone else been in a similar position? What helped you to rid yourself of such guilt?
Thank you x

Try and see the guilt as a symptom of needing the time off. I bet it's kept you at work longer than you probably should if you're so far into stress that you needed to be signed off. I've been in that position before.

Physical exercise can be helpful to distract your mind - my favourite is to spend lots of time outdoors, walking in nature etc.

Have a look on YouTube for some guided meditation, body stretching videos, things that can help quiet your mind.

I understand OP. U obviously need the time off. Look after yourself

I a similar situation awaiting doctors tomorrow so stressed at work I resigned but still I’m feeling guilty I’m not sure why and it’s making me sick. I’m putting myself first but it’s hard when work fills your head space so much. I’m focusing on my house work and watching nice programs trying to read (concentration not great) walking outdoors does help a lot. Also writing down things so your mind doesn’t dwell on stuff.

While you are off, aim to do things that will support you physically and mentally and try not to think about or worry about work.

I'm sorry it's gotten to this stage. Make sure you take this time to really switch off and relax and do nice things for yourself. I will be pretty blunt here about my thoughts around work. You are completely totally 100% replaceable in work. Ultimately they don't really care about you. You have to put yourself and your happiness first. In my previous workplace, I worked with a woman who had been there for over 30 years. She sadly got sick and passed away a few months later on a Tuesday. They had filled her position by Friday evening of that same week. The day of her funeral. It was absolutely brutal.