Going back to work after a period of instability

[Sunshine]

I have had 3 weeks off work because I have been unwell mentally but my sick note runs out at the end of this week.

How do you know you are ready to go back and if you can handle it. I don't feel strong enough mentally and feel like I could panic under the pressure that is a busy fitting room in a popular shop during school holidays. Or if my reluctants to go back is because I just don't want to deal with the stress and that I don't like the job.

On one hand I know it would be good to get back into a routine but on the other hand I'm petrified.

[Ash*]

Can you do a phased return? So you do half days?

I work in retail and was off for 7 months with anxiety and depression. It took me 6 weeks of phased return before I could go back full time. Go back to the doctor and voice your concerns and arrange to speak to someone in work about a phased return. Your doctor can highlight that on your fitness to work note, and work have to make adjustments to your work.

Really helped me. I've been back for 10 months and sometimes I still say "I can't work in that situation is there something else I can do?" It'll be an ongoing thing. You'll know when you're ready,but at the same time try not to avoid it just because it feels uncomfortable because that will make the anxiety of going back worse.

Good luck.

[Stellata]

The thing is, it's hard to really know. The first day back I found the hardest, and also now I'm back at my full hours, I'm finding it tough going. I had a phased return, after being off 3 weeks [due to stress, depression and ED weakness]. I found Occupational Health amazing in supporting me back. My manager too. Occupational Health can be great. I'm seeing mine again next week.

[teachit]

I know the holidays are coming up but they are a little ways away. Getting back into the swing now will make the rush at that point easier. Also, if it feels like it is too much you could do what they said and talk about phased return.

Going back to the normal routine is always so difficult but needs to be done at some point. Sometimes jumping in is just the best way.