Communicating Mental Health Needs.

Anonymous

January 9,2023 at 1:28PM UTC

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Communicating Mental Health Needs.

I’m experiencing burnout triggered by both my job and personal factors. I typically am very good at separating work and personal, but my severe anxiety is causing disruption to my routine and I am seeing my self disengage and disconnect from work. (Note that no one has approached me or said anything, this is just my observation)

We had time off during the Holidays but I was only able to unplug and not recharge. I’m at the point where I am fearing I may need to take a leave of absence or STD to take care of my mental health, but am nervous of the image or reputation this may have on my career. How do I communicate this to my boss?

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Holly NunnallyJanuary 9,2023 at 2:25PM UTC
If you have a good relationship with your boss I would just be open and honest.
If you feel like you need more than a couple of days, I would talk to HR about FMLA.
As a side note, have you given any thought about treating your anxiety? (You didn't say if you were undergoing treatment, so I wanted to throw this out there just in case) Treatment could be in the form of medication, exercise, mindfulness, journaling, counseling, etc.
AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 4:21PM UTC
I am currently in therapy and on medication, practicing yoga, and cut out all caffeine/alcohol to help regulate cortisol. I will look into our handbook about FMLA and options.
AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 4:22PM UTC
I would explain the need to heal to your boss. Some managers and even a few companies are sensitive to mental health issues and others are not. You will need to prioritize your needs and allow things to land however they do.
Clear, transparent communication is your best approach but please be aware of the potential downside regardless. Your apprehension for the damage to your career and//or reputation is understandable but out of your control.
Take care of yourself.
AnonymousJanuary 11,2023 at 4:17AM UTC
I disagree about this. The supervisor doesn't need to know the reason for a leave of absences, especially if the supervisor's style is part of the cause!
AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 4:23PM UTC
Thank you! I like your productive conversation suggestion, I think that would be helpful coming in with ideas. I can take up to 5 days of PTO and can look at FMLA and other leave options as well. I will make sure to look into our handbook. I think communicating in general is just the first step.
AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 5:35PM UTC
Honesty is the best policy. Share, and don't wait, get the help you need. Find out if your benefits program has an EAP= Employee Assistance Program. Often its quietly bundled in there and they offer therapy and other support services for just such a situation. Good luck.
AnonymousJanuary 11,2023 at 4:16AM UTC
There are still people who hold onto outdated ideas about mental health. You can't un-say something like that.
AnonymousJanuary 11,2023 at 4:15AM UTC
In the U.S., you don't have to disclose the reason for a medical L.O.A. Sounds like it could be worth it, and also worth bloodwork with your M.D., exercise, and therapy!