topic Struggling to attend work in Depression

Struggling to attend work

Xie — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 10:23:06 GMT

Hi,

I’m a casual worker at a fast food place while I attend university and lately my depression has worsened and I’m struggling to get out of bed. I’ve already missed shifts and I don’t know how to explain to my employer why. I slept through my last day time shift and I’m incredibly low on money but I don’t know what to do.

does anyone have any advice?

Struggling to attend work

Yana8216 — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 10:41:39 GMT

Hi Xie

I think many of us can relate to your situation. Sometimes employers are really understanding of mental health struggles and will be accommodating. Other employers just don't seem to get it. If you see a General Practitioner doctor and explain what is going on they will offer you some solutions to help ease your depression and you can ask them for a letter to give to your employer as evidence of your health condition that is preventing you from attending work sometimes.

If I'm low on money I get friends to save bottles and cans that I can return & earn and I also do online surveys through an organisation that puts earnings in my bank account. It's not much, but every little bit helps.

Struggling to attend work

Amelia02 — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:17:18 GMT

Hi Xie,

so sorry your feeling this way, sending you💞.
Agree, you should visit a GP and let them know what’s been happening for you. Have you got one you like?
Do you have friends you can talk to about this?
Your university will have support services I’m sure - often they can be discounted for their students. If you don’t know about them, ask student services to direct you. Think of all the groups you fit in to and check if they have any support that could help you. I don’t know you but some egs do you fit in to any of the following: students representative council, nursing/engineering/___your faculty society, LGBT, student’s mental health services, international students support..There are also crisis telephone numbers you can call which are free for everyone in Australia. I’m pretty sure they are listed on this site.
re work - have you heard of Airtasker too? I have seen before there are some online jobs on there. They might suit you at the moment.

Take good care of yourself and come back if you want to.
Best, A

Struggling to attend work

Sophia16 — Sun, 13 Mar 2022 09:45:33 GMT

Hi Xie,

Welcome to the Beyond Blue forums and thank you for being open here. It sounds like you are feeling distressed and tired.

Have you tried to seek help from a medical professional? they are there to help you create a coping plan and are always there to support you.

Depression can really take over you. Telling your employer that you struggle with it can be good. I am sure they will understand what you are going through. You can ask your local GP for medical certificates if needed.

For now, find things that you enjoy. Don't be too hard on yourself and try and do things you are capable of.

Stay safe and i am always here to chat.