Hi Krix
Firstly, congratulations on your recovery process and for doing your best to return and stay at work.
I understand your concern about the upcoming performance discussion but feel so sad that we are having this conversation.
Somehow I don’t believe you would feel the way you do if you had been in hospital and recovering following a car accident, heart surgery or bone marrow transplant. Stigma associated with mental health conditions and fear of possible discrimination is still very real and damaging.
I would make a list of all your contributions and achievements, so you have something positive to discuss. Put this forward In the context of your illness and recovery,
For example, despite a lengthy absence from the workplace I have managed to … Consider things that may not normally make you list, like: maintain relationships with colleagues, quickly get up to speed on “x”, maintain regular attendance, etc
I’m curious to know if your employer and you agreed reasonable adjustments in the workplace to facilitate your return (no pressure to answer here). If they are in place you could discuss if they’re working or not. If they’re not in place, could be a good opportunity to discuss your needs to improve performance.
Good luck and kind thoughts to you
