To take time off or not to take time off, that is the question...HELP?

Question:

I went to see my dr yestereday, since I've been having problems with my depression and anxiety more and more lately. After talking for a good while, she recommends that I take a week or two off from work ( i am an RN on a very busy unit ) When I talked to my hubby about this, he said its up to me, but we could really use the money right now (we're saving up to buy a house). Way to guilt trip me. I feel that I do need a little break, just until I get my head on straight and start feeling a little better. I mean, I hold ppl's lives in my hands every day, and if I'm not up to par, what happens if an error occurs and someone gets hurt??
So if I do take time off, my hubby will be disappointed in me, and yes I have explained to him my reasons for agreeing with my dr and how I'm feeling. If I don't then I have the constant worry about making a mistake since I am having problems concentrating.
Any suggestions? To take a leave, or not to take a leave, that is my question.

Answers:
I was a RN, and have depression.

Note I said "I was..."

My first sick note for 2 weeks, became one for 4 weeks, then 2 months. It went on and on. I'd be off work for 6-8 months, then try to go back. I'd be back for 4-6 months then be off again.

My depression cost me my job, my social life, friends, my self-confidence, my home.

Do take time off.

Don't push to go back until you're 100% ready - going back because of financial problems caused difficulties at work, and the eventual termination of my contract.

All I can say really, is don't just take pills, ask for as much support as you can get. Try and get some CBT and if that's not possible, ask for an early psych referral, or referral to a CPN. You need to get the disease sorted out as soon as possible.

Time off work, will give you the opportunity to get some help. It may also save your job, because as the disease worsens, your colleagues will notice and start complaining to your manager(s). If your depression is severe, it will take much longer than 2 weeks to resolve,so don't expect to be back at work quickly.

If you had a broken leg and couldn't work, would your hubby be disappointed in you then? I imagine not, yet depression can be way more disabling than many physical diseases.

Look after yourself.

take the leave, you can get a house a little later, what its gonna make you get a house 2 weeks later than planned? take off.

More Questions and Answers

The consumer health information on youqa.com is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions.
The answer content post by the user, if contains the copyright content please contact us, we will immediately remove it.

To take time off or not to take time off, that is the question...HELP?

Health Resources