Depression

[Rick]

@Ma60 

 Hello Ma60.

Are you ok? firstly I think that is important.

I would genuinely like to know. You don't have to be ok if you're not.

What your workplace has done is unethical and only borderline legal. 

And is far from best practice re mental health in the workplace.

I'm sorry for saying this. But 

What Bastards!

Anything we can do to support right now, just let us all know. Everyone I've met here are wonderful, supportive and caring. I know we will all support you as you want us.

That being said: a letter outlining your experience?

As a person who will never accept injustice again I can only offered a very biased view.

I would inform head office of what has occurred, reminding them of Work Place Mental Health Best Practise. http://www.mentalhealthcommission.gov.au/our-work/mentally-healthy-workplace-alliance.aspx

I could'nt help but do that, in the hope that noone else will cop it in the same way.

But as I said, Ican;t be objective on this subject.

What do you want to do?

Maybe, start there and work backwards.

Check this Govt web page re Best paractise. It might help.

If you need any more info just do a mention @Rick and I'll get back to you.

Hope endures

Rick

[Ma60]

It has been a long time since I was on the forum. After leaving my job in December, I took time to look after my mental health. I completed a 12 week outpatient program which gave further skills in my battle with depression. I started a new job a couple of months ago, management have been so helpful especially when I have to attend apps. Such a change from last job. Also they acknowledge my qualifications and skills. Had a anxiety attack at work last week, was sent home for the rest of the day. On return to work the next day I had to see management. I was nervous about this but the response from management was great. Very supportive, they were concerned it was a work issue had caused my anxiety, it was not work related at all. Isn't it amazing how positive workplace attitudes can make life more bearable.

[PeppiPatty]

Dear @Ma60

How are you? Good on you for posting.... thanks.

Just wondering Have you got supportive family around you? 

Last year, with help from the crew here, i went back to work as  carer in the  metropolitan area, i asked for no hard work people ..but only lasted 3 months . i was actually surprised with the kindness that i was given by my work. Its a small caeres/nurses organization, i am grateful. 

I only see one lady, once a fortnight now.

Pleaze keep on posting when you have time, 

Ja 47yr

[Ma60]

Yes I have a very supportive husband and children. They are all grown up and have all left home. My husband is good at picking up signs I might be going downhill before I do. When I see my Psychitarist I tell him if my husband has noticed any changes. I am fortunate that I have not only family support but my Psychitarist, GP and psychologist work together.

[PeppiPatty]

sounds good on your husband. Awesome on the Psychologist linking in with the Psychiarist. 

Also, on your children and hey....we wouldnt want it any other way right? 

My oldest son lives other side of Australia but we get along well. I missed both of my sons a lot earlier this week, just to have a friendly face around but...my husband i married/ we seperated  2 years ago ....he came over to visit me. That was lovely. 

[Ma60]

Spoke to soon. One week after panic attack I had my hours cut to 1 day a week. Just feel like giving up. Asked management why could not give a answer.

[CherryBomb]

Hi @Ma60,

That sounds so stressful. Not knowing why your employers made that decision can contribute to worry, particularly about how they view your MI. It's doesn't seem fair that they have not given you any answers. I'm not sure what your rights are but I wonder if it might be helpful to speak with someone that can give you some advice around this. JobAccess gives advice to people around employment and MI

Is there an HR department that you can speak with?

I worry when I hear things like 'just feel like giving up'. Are you ok?

If you feel like things are getting overwhelming, please don't hesitate to contact one of these services:

Lifeline: 13 11 14 or Crisis Chat
Suicide call back service: 1300 659 467 or online counselling
If in immediate danger: 000

Stay safe,

CB

[Ma60]

It is more about giving up work. I am so over the way mental health is treated in the workplace. I wonder if I am really up to working .

[CherryBomb]

@Ma60

I don't think this is a reflection on your capacity to work, but more a reflection of workplaces that are perhpas not well equipped yet to support people with mental health issues.

[PeppiPatty]

@Ma60

Dear, Ma60. Maybe......this might be time to work out how to get better support for  your work. 

How many hours would you feel okay working? 

How is the best way for you to get support at your workplace. 

You need to think that you may be the one to introduce peer support or.....support elsewhere. 🐺🐐🐃🐣🐩🐇🐰🐈🐶🐢🐦