Washington Babies

Depression/exhaustion/mental health/HR question (long)

I have been depressed in the past (been on antidepressants, gone to therapy etc) so I know the signs and unfortunately I think I'm there again. 

That coupled with the crazy amount of stress I've been under lately.  Long story but work has been completely insane to the point that I've worked every day for months and Maeve just can not stay healthy.  Nothing life threatening obviously, but we've been at the doctor or keeping her home from daycare every few days in the past few weeks.

I'm literally at my breaking point.  I'm going to see my PCP tomorrow to talk about it.  I don't have a therapist anymore because my old one moved away to care for family.  

Now the question part- Do you think a doctor would ever write a note/"prescribe" time off from work?  I feel like if I could have a month to just focus on me and getting better - therapy/maybe medication etc - that I could work this all out.  I'm not looking for short term disability or any of that.  I would go unpaid.  I just don't know how my company would handle it if I proposed it without some sort of doctor's note. 

Any advice?

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Re: Depression/exhaustion/mental health/HR question (long)

  • If I were in your shoes, I would go for the short term disability and talk to your doctor.  Otherwise I'm not exactly sure how your leave would work - I would think a note from your doctor would qualify you for FMLA leave (up to 12 weeks unpaid) but I would start with STD.

    I'm sorry you're going through this - I think mostof us can relate on some level.  I hope you find the solution that's right for you!

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  • I think your PCP would do that for you.  I too have experienced times like these :(  My friend also had to do this recently, PCP gave her a note.  It might even fall under FMLA but I am not sure.  I definately would have some back up from a Dr.

    You need a break, this kind of stress is so not worth it for you, or your family.

    Big hugs mama, and keep us posted.

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  • I agree with PPs.   I have heard of people doing this before, and you should qualify for FMLA/short-term disability with a dr.'s note.  You also should not have to divulge the entire situation to your employer if you don't want to, since technically that is personal information that falls under the dr.-patient confidentiality clause. 

    I hope you can get the time off soon, since you definitely need to take any opportunity to do what is right for you and sweet little Maeve!  Hugs to you!

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  • imagedoublem:

    I agree with PPs.   I have heard of people doing this before, and you should qualify for FMLA/short-term disability with a dr.'s note.  You also should not have to divulge the entire situation to your employer if you don't want to, since technically that is personal information that falls under the dr.-patient confidentiality clause. 

    I hope you can get the time off soon, since you definitely need to take any opportunity to do what is right for you and sweet little Maeve!  Hugs to you!

    I agree with this.  Keep us posted.  You'll be in my thoughts.

    M + K = 05.16.09 | A.P. = 02.27.11
  • yes, it's FMLA.  As long as you have a note from a doctor, they should be fine with it.  The note can be vague too.  Good luck, hang in there, and good for you for taking care of YOU!
    BIG Brother born 10/19/07 little Brother born 1/31/12
  • Also, with a doctors note (which, I would think with the right circumstances you should be able to get) you would qualify for FMLA if you haven't exhausted it all already and/or Washington State Family Leave.  WA allows for more leave the Federal, so make sure you look into that as well.

    And, definitely apply for STD if you have it.  There is no reason not to use that benefit if you qualify for it.  If you're taking the time under the F/WA Family leave acts, there isn't any reason to not to submit for STD...it is just the pay part of your leave.

    And lastly, I saw an amazing therapist downtown when I was struggling with my PPD.  She is in Belltown, on First and Lenora, so pretty close if you're still working.  I'll send you a message on FB with her info.

    Hope you're feeling better soon, dealing with this shiz really sucks!! 

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  • KNemoKNemo member

    imageWatchPot:
    yes, it's FMLA.  As long as you have a note from a doctor, they should be fine with it.  The note can be vague too.  Good luck, hang in there, and good for you for taking care of YOU!

    I did this when I was PG with Max. The stress of my job/boss was making my blood pressure sky rocket. My Midwife crafted a note for me to work PT (since I wasn't ready to go on FT leave) and it was covered under FMLA.

    Good luck, mama! I hope you are able to get some time off to sort things out!

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  • imageAlli923:

    Also, with a doctors note (which, I would think with the right circumstances you should be able to get) you would qualify for FMLA if you haven't exhausted it all already and/or Washington State Family Leave.  WA allows for more leave the Federal, so make sure you look into that as well.

    And, definitely apply for STD if you have it.  There is no reason not to use that benefit if you qualify for it.  If you're taking the time under the F/WA Family leave acts, there isn't any reason to not to submit for STD...it is just the pay part of your leave.

    And lastly, I saw an amazing therapist downtown when I was struggling with my PPD.  She is in Belltown, on First and Lenora, so pretty close if you're still working.  I'll send you a message on FB with her info.

    Hope you're feeling better soon, dealing with this shiz really sucks!! 

    This!  I am sorry that you are going through this.  It is good though that you recognize what is going on and seeking the help you need.  At the end of the day, your and Maeve's health is what is most important. Big hugs!

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  • imageAlli923:

    And lastly, I saw an amazing therapist downtown when I was struggling with my PPD.  She is in Belltown, on First and Lenora, so pretty close if you're still working.  I'll send you a message on FB with her info.

    This would be amazing!!

    Thank you everyone for the encouragement! I really appreciate it! 

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  • Ditto looking into FMLA.  I took FMLA for similar depression/anxiety related issues back in 2004, so I don't have specifics but I know it can be done.

    Good luck mama!  I'm glad that you know you need a break!  I hope you're able to get some time off to take care of yourself and M!

     

     

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  • You've gotten good advice already, and I have none to add.  But I just want to say that I'm thinking about you and sending you monster hugs.  I know you're crazy busy (obviously) but if you want/need a girls night, coffee date, walk in the park, etc. just say the word! Left HugRight Hug
  • I agree with what the other girls said about FMLA and STD. I'm sorry that you are going through this but I'm glad you are taking the steps to make yourself better. Big hugs and lots of good thoughts for you!
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  • imageiHeartHimMore:
    You've gotten good advice already, and I have none to add.  But I just want to say that I'm thinking about you and sending you monster hugs.  I know you're crazy busy (obviously) but if you want/need a girls night, coffee date, walk in the park, etc. just say the word! Left HugRight Hug

    This exactly!!   Take some you time and feel better! 

    imageimageLilypie Third Birthday tickers Lilypie First Birthday tickers image . Ice Ice Binky Formerly FutureMrsLynch
  • AHHH I have been there. Sorry momma!!!! Let me know if you need anything. Even just run to the store for TP :) Keep us updated and take some time for your self. 
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  • Big hugs to you! A friend of mine was in a similar situation and got a doctor's note to take FMLA time. It made all the difference for him, I hope you can get some time to rest and relax at home, you certainly deserve it. I'm here if I can do anything!
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  • I'm not sure how it works, but I hope you are able to get some help and relieve some of the stress so you can get back to your old self.  ((hugs))
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  • I'm sorry, J.  Lots of good thoughts & vibes coming your way - hope you find a great solution that will help you feel much, much better.
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  • Lots of good advice already, all I can offer is hugs, someone to walk with or just meet for coffee and commentary on the world.  Or on the weirdos in the coffee shop, it all works for me.

    Seriously, I have Fri/Sat/Sun off and mornings open since I work swings.

     

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  • oh - and I keep forgetting that after I finish writing reports this week, I'm almost completely free for the summer!  E and I would love to hang out with you and Maeve if you would like!
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