Hi,

Sorry I'm not sure where to post this, I have been frequenting the depression board, but this is more of an anxiety worry.

I have suffered anxiety and depression for almost 15 years now (i'm 28), however I only recently went to see a GP about it as I felt it was really affecting my life.  I was signed off work 2 weeks ago to see if that would help matters as I was quite stressed at work and I'm due to go back to work tomorrow (unless I get signed off again as I have another Dr's appointment before I go back.)

Last week I was feeling the time off had helped me cope with the depression and anxiety as I didn't have the stress to deal with too, but this week I've been having difficulty sleeping due to the worry about going back t work and what people are going to say about me.  I'm sitting here physically shaking, my stomach is in knots, I feel sick and I'm starting to get a headache - all for the thought of going back to work!  It feels like the time off has been a waste as I'm back to square one!

I keep telling myself It's probably best to go back to work tomorrow because if I have any longer off, it will be even more difficult to go back!

What usually happens at the 'end of sign off' period with Dr, do they just ask how things are going? Do they ask if you want to go back etc? This is my first time in my life I've been signed off, so not too sure of the process?

With your own experiences, what's the best thing to do?

Thanks!

Hi christie. I also CL the depression board so know you from there. Sorry you have had to wait for a reply but I haven't had access to a working computer!

also apologies that I can't help at all about the work situation as I have never been in paid employment. Good luck though, hope it all gets sorted. The people involved in work will have full knowledge of what should be done

Tabbs xx

hiya, I was signed off for only a few days due to stress a while ago and was quite worried to go back to work, but things went really well. If all is sorted properly you should get a chat with your HR person and line manager and at that point it will be (cofidentially) discussed how things can improve and make you feel better. You can let them know whether you feelup to working again or not. Luckily for me some changes were made already anyway and not a lot had to change to maek me feel better, but just be open and honest to them as that will be in best interest for both of you: it won't be in their benefit to have someone unhappy and signed off work, so they'll make sure things will be ok for you if it means you can come back to work.

Good luck. hope it all goes well!