Irritated Bowel Syndrome Symptoms

Question by JSK: Should i take time off work due to depression?
I’m a 24 year old guy working in a busy office. Many have said i have a lot going for me calling me good looking and other things. However I have suffered low moods for many years now. The last year or so it has worsened mainly due to health related problems- IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), nasal problems, sexual issues-lack of libido.. also other factors such as breaking up with girlfriend whom i loved (she works with me but thankfully not same office!). My social life is very poor as a result too.

As a result I struggle at work. People don’t really notice, though i have told my manager a few things and she was rather sympathetic. Here are the problems; I wake up exhausted dreading to come in. I stroll in late. I am very slow paced. My focus and concentration is poor. I don’t understand or enjoy the job much anymore and try to fluke my way through it. I am easily irritated by things- every sound, telephone ring, movement. I feel as though people are watching me and how i do my work, i cant even make a phone call with more then 2 people in the room as i fear i might say the wrong thing. All of my other worries are on my mind too. Sometimes i have to leave the room, run to the bathroom and burst into tears! To top things off, i am very tired every day and lack energy, i end up sleeping on the bus home.

I just want to get better. I am currently arranged to speak to a counselor which is a start. I feel that a few weeks off also may help but i terrified of what people will think and say when i come back. I mean they think i have it all going for me, so they would certainly question and gossip about me. Also there are many changes in the work place taking place soon and me not being there might raise questions

Best answer:

Answer by Ellie
I had exactly the same problem 2 years ago, I was really depressed and couldn perform at work due to this. I’m not sure if you are in the UK or US so i guess it depends on the rules surrounding such things but I would firstly get a note from your Doctor saying you are suffering from depression and he/she will also advise you of how much time you should take off work. This should then be discussed with your manager and/or HR department and they should do all they can to help you get through the tough period. Sometimes a good rest at home for a few weeks is what you need to recharge and start to gain strength and confidence, i actually ended up taking 3 months off but that was what i needed. I hope this helps and I hope you feel better soon.

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