YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

Hi all,

I left work work today after having a meltdown. My psychiatrist suggested that I go home, and that's unusual for him (see my post http://mentalpod.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=8077). Because of what's going on he said I should take off as much time as I need and not go back to work until I feel more stable when I'm at home. Which makes sense, because if I'm taking Ativan to stay calm while I'm not even at work, I don't see how going to work would be a good idea.

My question for all of you mentalpodders: What has worked well for you in explaining your need for time off work to employers? I'm sure this can vary a lot from individual to individual, but I'm hoping that there is a way to explain to my boss that I need a couple of days off so I don't throw my laptop at someone, without ruining any chances for that promotion I've been trying to get.

Hi DemureEccentric,

I don't know what your rapport is at your workplace and what you have in place as far as sick days/personal time etc or if it's informal. My instinct for these things (if I say anything at all) is to vaguely state that it's a health issue or a personal issue. Personally, I worry about sharing too much information.

This is an issue that I struggle with somewhat because in my job, with some exceptions, my work schedule is flexible as long as I am getting my work done and there where I need to be for scheduled interactions with others, but when I am exceptionally anxious and depressed, my attendance and my productivity can decline, which leads to assumptions and negative judgments by others.