Quote:
Originally Posted by FoxtrotGolfXray 5.0
I just wanted to focus on the bold sentence. No one should feel ashamed or embarrassed or guilty to take time off for mental wellbeing issues. You mention that you don't look sick. Let's take the scenario where someone was suffering from early stages cancer, for example. They would most likely not have any outwardly obvious symptoms, but no reasonable person would shame them for taking time off to get their issue addressed.
The way you feel right now is no different. Why should the fact that you can cover over, mask or hide your mental health issue be any different? You're not well, you need to take some personal time to help recuperate. For me, there's no difference between physical and mental wellbeing when it comes to taking time away to look after yourself.
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I have had a day booked for a few weeks now to have a medical procedure this Friday. This is in the public hospital system, meaning I have been on the waiting list for more than 12 months now and I don't have the luxury of choosing when this procedure is done.
I mentioned today that I may not be able to work on Saturday because of what is happening on Friday, I will be knocked out for this and not meant to drive for 24 hours. I also know I'm not going to be in a headspace to face people all day, yes, I am preempting my mood. I don't mention that to the boss, because he just doesn't understand mental health issues, the "blokes don't get depressed" type of mentality.
I can't believe the attitude I got from him today. I work every Saturday without fail, giving up time with my own family or missing out of things I would like to do so that they can have a weekend off. I covered for this person last year when he decided to take elective surgery at the busiest time of the year, and again when he went and got himself Covid a few months ago. I go to work when I am not feeling great, either physically or mentally, for fear of letting someone down. There are days where I barely function but still do what I have to do.
I'm left with the feeling of guilt and letting the company down for taking two days off for something I NEED to have done so I can come back and continue to work.