Returning to work

[BonnyB]

Not sure if I'm doing the right thing. I am scared I'll go back to square one but the same could be said it I returned in 2 months

I'm putting my positive pants on. Tolerating hydroxychloroquine now, so should feel the benefits of that soon. I'm going to ask for phased return, hoping they agree to mornings only for a couple of weeks.

I miss the children. I'm going to try.

Thanks to all of you that have supported me through this and my diagnosis.

Keep safe and well X

[YYC-Girl]

Are you on short term or long term disability? There are laws that protect you either way and therefore your employer will need to accommodate a schedule that works for you. Please keep that in mind and don’t overdo it. If you can only work mornings, then that is your schedule. However, if you can only work two days a week, then that is your schedule. With time you will figure out what you can withstand on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.

If you have disability benefits through your employer, I suggest that you thoroughly review a copy of the contract that was signed by your employer and the insurer as this document will spell out exactly what you are entitled to and the thresholds for your possible full-time return to work. For example, I am not obligated to return to work full-time unless I can withstand a full-time schedule of 60% or more. I am absolutely not there and likely will never be. I work a very limited schedule (2 part-time days/week from home) and the money that I do make supplements my disability money so I make a total of 80% of my previous income.

[BonnyB in reply to YYC-Girl]

Thank you. I've no idea. I've never been off long term before. My GP has given me a fit/ sick note saying I can only do phased return and with amendments. I work for the council and I'm paid in full when off. Think this will carry on with phased return.

Having said all this Monday wasn't exactly a success. I struggled to explain my diagnosis of UCTD and it was obvious my line manager had no clue and was dismissive. So I've asked for a occupational health referral and I've not gone back into work yet.

Thank you for your time X

[Tempname in reply to BonnyB]

Hi BonnyB,

sounds like a very stressful day, well done on getting through it! Would you consider printing out a good 1 page summary of UCTD from the internet and sending it to your manager with a nice note? I think open communication, education and patience is often the key to these situations. Getting a referral to Occ Health was a good idea, I have found them very supportive. The most important thing is not to feel rushed/ pressured by anyone, and you have to prioritise your health & recovery, as your manager probably won't unfortunately.

Best of luck with it all.

[Hoofprints]

Good luck on your return to work. Do keep listening to your body though and don't push yourself too much. Your health is the most important thingTake care 🌈

[BonnyB in reply to Hoofprints]

Thanks, think I can say my first day back has made me nervous and worry X

[Hoofprints in reply to BonnyB]

I think that's normal for anyone returning to work after a gap in time let alone someone dealing with your health condition.

Be kind to yourself, praise yourself for what you have managed and take it one step at a time. And take care of yourself and your health. You will find what is right for you.

Good luck 🤞🌈