My father got a stroke couple of days ago, and I am thinking of taking a stress leave from work.

Sophie

July 11,2022 at 10:21AM UTC

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My father got a stroke couple of days ago, and I am thinking of taking a stress leave from work. I have been highly stressed before this incident as i had to relocate for my work...but with my father still in the hospital, I cannot even think of work. What best way should I communicate with my work to take some time on leave?

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AnonymousJuly 11,2022 at 10:53AM UTC
Do you know your company's policies regarding time off? If not, check your company policies and then reach out to whomever is in charge of approving leave. Let them know how long you plan to be out and if necessary, why.
You may be able to take sick leave, and you may be eligible for other job protected time as well.
Know who will be backing you up while you're out and let them know what you're working on/what might come up.
I hope your father's recovery goes well and you get some of your stress relieved.
Nicole DupuisJuly 11,2022 at 12:11PM UTC
Wow I am so sorry to hear that. I would def review the policy so you know exactly what amount of time you can take, how much notice you need to give, etc.
I would also emphasize in your request that you want to take this time so you can come back more present, more focused, basically emphasizing the advantages to the company If you take some time to reset.
I wish you the best in this stressful time.
AnonymousJuly 11,2022 at 12:13PM UTC
If you have a HR/PO person at your employer set a time to meet with them. Have a direct conversation, conveying what you can and can not do during the time you will need off. There may be protections for you available, however not being honest about what is happening will make it difficult for that person to be able to give you all options.
Hope your dad recovers well
Carmelita ErvinJuly 11,2022 at 12:21PM UTC
I am so sorry to hear about your father. Be sure to notify your employer and follow any company protocols when taking time off for a family emergency. Check your employee manual to the amount of time you can request. Try to talk your employer at the beginning of the business day, if possible. Send a follow-up email restating the details of the leave. This will protect you incase your employer claims that you took off without asking first. This might not happen, but its always best to protect yourself. Dealing with a family emergency is difficult, you must request time off and a handle the situation. I wish your father a speedy recovery and don’t forget to take care of yourself.
AnonymousJuly 11,2022 at 2:29PM UTC
Put your request for family leave in writing in an email with the date of leave. Address the email to HR and all managers you report to.
The explanation will be " due to an immediate family health emergency"
AnonymousJuly 12,2022 at 12:59PM UTC
FMLA only applies to in-home caregivers, so there may not be a legal standing to make an FMLA request. A leave of absence would be a courtesy on HR's part. It's worth a try, though.