1. Community
  2. Mental health
  3. Anxiety Disorders

Taking time off work... how long is too long?

Posted , 5 users are following.

john20740
john20740

Im suffering from anxiety and depression. If I talk to most people my mouth goes dry and I find it difficult to string a sentence together. 

Im currently 4 weeks into Sertaline and have been off work since I started taking them due to the side effects and anxiety. I'm going to the gym, doing yoga, meditation etc.

How long is too long to take off work? My job is visible as Im a manager and have to present alot. I dont feel ready to go back yet.. but also dont want to take too much time off. 

Any advice would be appreciated.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • brenda80266
    brenda80266 john20740

    Posted

    Don’t rush it John 4 weeks is very early I too was on sertraline for 8months but didn’t suit me so now on Prozac feeling ok but most AD CAN TAKE UP TO 12 weeks it’s great you are managing the gym etc that’s very positive as all I wanted to do is lock myself away so good on you .youll know when you feel ready to return to work as long as you don’t feel pressured but when it’s time do a phased return good luckx
  • GK1981
    GK1981 john20740

    Posted

    John thanks for your message.  

    ​I can completely relate as I have also been off work for 5 weeks now due to Anxiety and Depression.  I was prescribed Setraline 4 weeks ago and started 100mg (Rise from 50mg) last Tuesday and my emotions have had a see-saw effect.  My wife also suffers from Anxiety and has been on Setraline for 7 years and swears by it, so she is my inspiration and proof that it can work.

    ​I take my medication in the morning as taking it before bed was given me amazing agitation and insomnia.  I still get both but to a lesser degree.  

    ​I am a supervisor and I completely understand how you feel about needing to be visible.  But like Brenda says maybe we should cut each other some slack as its only been 4/5 weeks into our new life change.  

    ​Have you opened up to your employer?  If you have, have they put you through to any support programme?  I was able to get a short time counselling this way.  Which greatly benefits getting things off your chest.  

  • aaron09629
    aaron09629 john20740

    Posted

    Hello John, sorry to hear about this.

    Sounds like the stress can be at a high in your job. Have you told any of your staff that you suffer with aniexty?

    I find it useful to tell people who im around a lot what im going through. Good people will understand and will help. It may take the edge off a few things

  • Belle1993
    Belle1993 john20740

    Posted

    Hello John! I started taking sertraline two weeks ago today and I had 6 days off work and I’m still not feeling great but I’m working in a pharmacy so I’m lucky that I can be quite open with my manager and other colleagues about my anxiety problems and side effects.

    I would say that I’m not feeling great at the minute either and still suffering with certain side effects and sleep issues but each day is getting better but just take as much time as you think you need until you’re feeling more settled, good luck! X

Back to top

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.