quit job due to mental health - centrelink

[Unsureonlife]

hi,

I'm new. I'm sure this has been asked before but can I quit my job due to mental health and be able to receive payments straight away (after claim processing for jobseeker)? I have the centrelink medical certificate. Or will I need to wait due to "voluntarily ceasing my job" (even though mental health is not voluntary)?

Thanks in advance.

[smallwolf]

Hi and welcome to beyond blue.

Sorry that I cannot answer your question, but it sounds like things must be really bad at work for you to feel the need to quit.

I obviously don't know the situation you are in... Can I ask whether you have spoken to anyone at work about the situation to find a way forward. There were times when I was really low that my psychologist challenged (?) to tell my boss "things", my mother gave similar advice as well. I cannot say it as easy but were able to find some way forward. That helped for me though I don't know whether it would be an option for you.

I do hope you come back and share more of your story.

Tim

[Tay100]

Hi Unsureonlife

Thanks for posting- I'm many people can relate to your situation (you are 100% right, mental health problems are beyond our control!) and you aren't alone in asking questions like this! Whilst I can't provide a direct answer, as smallwolf has said, feel free to follow thier suggestions and keep us updated on your what you end up doing to secure your income. We can also listen and provide general support to you regarding the mental health issues as well, as well as helping you take care of yourself in the (understandably overwhelming) process of securing an alternative income.

Sending kindness,

Tay100

[Unsureonlife]

Hi smallwolf,

I recently had an ASD diagnosis confirmed by a clinical psychologist and had to switch jobs because my previous employer did not understand. I then lost that new job due to covid-19 and was bored at home so applied for whatever jobs were available.
This new job deals with customers who have some pretty intense issues not every call but the chance is high. As a result it affects my own depression/anxiety/ASD. I have spoken with them they know my situation but only being there 7 weeks they cant offer me the support I need from an employer if I was to stay working for them .

So it is not work so much that is the issue it is me and my outside of work situation. I care for a family member and have done so for 6 years plus and essentially put my life on pause. I really just need to take time out to ascertain what I want to do, and to get better mentally.

Hence the want to apply for centrelink rather than risk my mental health at a job that may or may not add more stress.