Should I feel guilty about being off work? Should I go back Monday?

[NeonPothos]

I have been off for coming up to 2 weeks now and really feel like I need a 3rd week… but I can’t help feeling guilty like I’m taking the mick.

My flare up has slowly improved but I’m feeling so down and anxious that it’s hard to think about going back to work. I have a demanding job as a senior manager of a large and busy branch (estate agents) so once I go back the pressure is back on.

I don’t know if this is the sort of thing to share but I don’t know what the right decision is. I feel sick to my stomach thinking about returning. (On another note I am tentatively searching for a less stressful job but the thought of change/new job etc. is also stressing my out too…

Thank you for allowing me to rant x

[Nicccc]

Take another week! You clearly aren’t well!

No one is going to give you a medal for coming back just a load of work.

You are the only person who is going to prioritise you.

Take care xxx

[Sunset-lady]

Why don't you do a phased return. Go in for a couple of mornings and one afternoon this week. Don't have any meetings just agree to be in the building and clear your emails and see people. This will help your anxiety and you'll know what you are dealing with. Xxx

[Daveexaggerate]

Hi sorry your not feeling good.

My chronic illnesses have made it so I can't work but when I first found out I pushed to keep working which has led to me being disabled.

Here's what I say to everyone when they are ill with a cold or whatever.

Always give yourself more time to recover. Many people will feel better tucked up in bed and then go back to work before having tried to do much at home. Therefore don't realise they are still unwell just coming out the other side of it 😊

For a flare up it's easy to feel guilty I completely get it but your not choosing to not do things, your body is unable to do those things at this time.

I try to talk to myself as I would a very dear friend as I find I'm alot more caring to them than myself.

I hope you feel better soon.

[PotatoSalad]

We give you permission to stay off work xxx

[Pizzaislife]

If you aren’t feeling up for it then definitely don’t go back in. But also consider getting a phased return sick note for when you do feel up for it. I have recently been off work for a month cause of endo-related stuff and my work suggested a phased return rather than straight back in and it really took the pressure off and made it feel manageable! I completely know the knot in the stomach feeling and not wanting to take the mick cause I have literally been there within the last few weeks (still in my phased return time!). Make sure to look after yourself xx