working for the dole with anxiety and depressing

[Lene]

Need help! I'm 29 years old and I'm on the dole and will have to work for the dole in salvos, for 25 hrs a week I did it last year but because of my severe anxiety and depression I was constantly getting sick notes from the doctor and doing like 2 days a week as I wanted to try, I still want to try but very worried about doing that many hours as the last boss I had got annoyed with all the sick notes 😞 made me feel even worse, so I was wondering if there is anyone that knows how I can do less hours? What should I do?

[Neil_1]

Hi there lene

Welcome to Beyond Blue and thank you for providing your post.

My immediate thought with this would be to get to your doctor and no doubt they are well aware of your severe anxiety and depression. You could hopefully get a letter from your doctor explaining that due to personal reasons (no need to state what they are), you only have the capacity of doing “X” number of hours or “X” number of days per week.

Do you think this could be an option?

Neil

[Zeal]

Hi Lene,

Welcome to the forum!

I'm sorry to hear about this dilemma you're facing. You are clearly doing the best you can, but need fewer hours to ensure you don't get overwhelmed. Neil's suggestion is a great one. Having a document or letter that explains your situation would help employers/bosses understand what needs to be in place for your wellbeing.

If you don't mind me asking, do you have emotional support from family and/or friends? Also, has your doctor suggested seeing a mental health professional?

It would be great to hear back from you 🙂

Best wishes,

Zeal

[Lene]

Thank you for your reply I think I will see how I go hopefully I will be ok, if not then I will go to my doctor again I just feel like I'm a pain to them when I go as I got them to give me sick notes last time

[Lene]

Hi zeal yes I do see a psychologist when I can afford it, I live with my boyfriend and he understands sometimes

[TBella]

Hi Lene

I got a certificate from my doctor saying I can only work 8-14hours a week & then had an appointment with centrelink Psychologist & it was approved.

all the best, I know how draining & stressful dealing with centrelink & job networks can be.

Kind Regards

Tbella