Depression and work

Hi,

maybe it would but I always believe you should not put yourself under to much strain when situations could make it worse and then you could be off longer can you go back perhaps less hours and do it gradually instead of in at the deep end.They cannot make you go back if you are certificated,only you know if you could manage it that's why I say perhaps a little at a time.Wish you luck.

 

I have been off for 3 months and only just beginning to feel more energised less fatigued and anxious ! I have seen gp weekly then fortnightly and now monthly and had meds changed during that time . It is well recognised that it can take upto 6 months plus to get better , some of my other posts in other discussions may resonate with what you are experiencing . Best wishes 

Hi P, depressive illness varies in extent and duration and does not readily fall into defined time frames. That said, severe depression (various ways to measure this - did your GP do that?) usually takes several months to improve with a combination of medication and CBT. You will know if you can go back to work, but in my experience one should not immediately step back into a difficult environment. It should be a phased return, say 2 half days for week1, then 3 half days, then 4, then 5, then turn some days into full. You get the picture I'm sure. This is normal practice. Your work adviser is correct that returning to work can be helpful, but it must be supportively and sensitively managed. You should get properly assessed, in theory your family GP can do this and get a sick certificate from them. Make some notes on how you feel and perhaps have a telephone call with your work advisor, on the assumption that you are too ill to work. The GP should sign you off 4 weeks at a time. Best wishes, David.

 

Hi panda,

I agree with your reaction. Being home and in a safe place is the only thing that made me feel "normal". Couldn't leave my house for months. Have you started on an anti depressant? It took my medication 3 months to finally get to a therapeutic level. Don't give up. It WILL get better. 

This is due to your work pressure.

Hi Panda15 - unforyunately I've had my share of depression and desperately trying to find an answer. I can relate to you problem. In 2013 I was worked into the ground and also had marital problems. If your brain is stressed for too long then you can suffer genuine burnout. After Christmas this year I realised that this had happened to me and did some research. Basically what you are describing is depression brought on by a prolonged period of stress. The symptions of reaching a crisis point (burnout) can be lack of energy and motivation, depression and a host of other symptoms. Most websites recommended an extended period to recover laying out strategies for doing so. One mentioned 6 months minimum if your symtoms were severe. It also warned that going back too soon to 'normality' can mean that recovery may take 2 years. I don't know your sutuation but I would seek the advice of a specialist. GPs have a hard job and are unlikely to have the right answer for every situation - be careful and consider your next steps - listen to your mind and body and don't risk prolonging your current situation.