Too sick to work. I need advice!

[Louise_Dew]

Hi everyone,

I’m 22 and currently going through a dark time, the worst part is my life is lovely. I have a great boyfriend and family and friends who love me, but the problem is I feel being at work makes me so anxious, unmotivated and depressed.

It’s past the point of just feeling shit at work, it’s really impacting me day to day and has for a while. I feel overwhelmed all the time and feel like I don’t have time to take care of myself. It’s been this way since I started working at 14 and gotten progressively worse.

Has anyone had experience with Centrelink or know what process I would have to go through to be at least recognised as someone who may need support? I don’t expect to not work and get a disability pension, but if there is something like being able to work part time and given a small allowance additionally?

Would really appreciate any help

[jess334]

Hi Louise,

Thanks for posting and welcome to the forums. Mental health issues can hit anyone, even people with great family and a lovely life.

I think it is a pretty common issue for people with depression to feel overwhelmed and unmotivated at work. Have you been in the same job for the whole time or have you tried some other areas of work that you might feel more interested and comfortable in?

Centrelink is an option, but it can be very difficult to get help through them. It depends on your family situation, who you are living with, how much work you do, and how much you would earn. You can go onto their website to find payments you may be eligible for. Their idea of the amount people need to live on is laughable.

You could start by speaking to your GP. They can be really helpful with work stress and mental heath.

Kind thoughts, Jess