How to prepare to return to work?

[mdowning81]

Hello all. I am new to the site and have really found following others posts helpful, what a great resource! I deal with anxiety and depression alot and seem prone to having major episodes at sporadic unexpected intervals. These episodes have lasted anywhere from two to six months at a time. In the past I have just left my jobs during these. I am currently coming through an episode that has had me off work for about a month and my Dr's want me to return to work on Mar 1. I am already getting really anxious about returning. Does anyone have any advice on how to return to work after being gone due to depression and anxiety? I have a really good job and do not want to lose it this time around.

[Hidden]

I’ve been where you are many times. Are you going back, full time immediately? If so, is it possible to have a gradual return like 1/2 days or every second day? I’ve found that this makes it easier to transition back to full time.

[mdowning81 in reply to Hidden]

Right now I am scheduled to return full time. Maybe I will talk to my Dr and boss about a reduced schedule. Thanks

[Hidden in reply to mdowning81]

My doctor has always been supportive of this approach. It definitely lessened the anxiety for me.

[Hidden]

Hello m,

I totally agree with Tweenie. Another thing you can do is see your boss and draw up a care plan for you when you're at work. It's to make work a safe place for you so that if your feeling anxious or agitated you can leave the room and have a safe place to calm down and talk. The thinking behind this is when you know you have a care strategy you you will be less anxious.

Actually in this present climate my workplace has a return to work care plan for all employees to help reduce anxiety and increase wellbeing.

Don't be afraid to approach your boss. I will be praying for you!

[mdowning81 in reply to Hidden]

Jeremiah, thank you and prayer is greatly appreciated

[Hidden in reply to mdowning81]

hey, any prayer requests welcome. It's one of my strategies for self care. In other posts I have written about having 4 things in place to help maintain my mental health and when I'm in crisis I can implement immediately.

1, a good and sympathetic doctor, the right meds, a good therapist and a safe place to talk, meaning someone who you trust and totally open up to. I don't talk to people at work or friends because it's not safe. I don't and talk to my family because they're not equipped to deal with my issues. I call my christian friends whom I call my brothers and sisters and they listen then pray and uplift and I do this for others. I'm not on meds or in therapy anymore. This is part of my care plan but i know there will be times that I might need to go back on the meds.

[Catsamaze ADAA Volunteer]

Hi there. I was out of work for depression for 5 months and then returned. Expectations are very important. Know that the first day back may feel awkward and you may feel self conscious. But know also that your coworkers will be happy to see that you’re back. After that first day I felt so much better and I think you will as well. As far as the work itself, ease back into it. Don’t expect to go full bore and don’t try to “make up” for your absence! Nobody expects you to do that. Congratulations on your return. And welcome to this wonderful group!!!