I'm suffering from major depression. I don't know what to do. I'm not suicidal, at least. I just feel like spending every moment in bed sleeping and not facing the world. In addition to obvious mental health issues, I have a number of physical health issues which may or may not be related to my depression. I am constantly sick to my stomach, my chest is tight, I have a almost constant shortness of breath, and I have a bit of a nervous tic. I feel like my mind is always racing at 200mph, and I just want to scream and then cry.
It's gotten to the point that I cannot do my job anymore. I feel completely worthless to my company. That is too bad, because I used to really enjoy what I do. I am currently seeking a medical leave of absence from work. My primary care physician wants me to see a psychiatrist in order to fill out the necessary paperwork for the leave of absence. It's turning out to be harder to get in to see a specialist than I thought it would be. I don't need to see a psychiatrist 2 months from now... I need one today! I don't really want to lose my job over this... I just know that I can't face it right now.
I completely understand what you are saying. I was and still am suicidal. I even told the counselors that and still didn't get an appointment until about 2 months later. The most you can do is search around for different places in your area. Good luck.
Can you claim "intermittant medical leave" right now? FLMA? I mean, that's what I've done in the past to protect my job. Your primary doc can fill out the necessary info and then when you see the psychiatrist, they can update. That's what I'd do. You're right, you don't want to lose your job.
I'm so sorry you feel so bad. Stick around here... Lots of people offer tons of support here. Hang in there. ~ Sly
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"Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you." ~ Lao Tzu
E.Sly has a valid point: You won't lose your job if you get your FMLA paperwork filled out by your doctor and turn it into your HR.
There was a young woman that used to work where I work, and she really, really needed to go on medical leave.
She finally did-- she's been gone about 2 1/2 to 3 years.
