I was diagnosed with severe depression and its effecting the workplace?

Question

I was recently diagnosed with severe depression, and its gotten worst to the point that i dont get out of bed when i dont have work. On my work days, its VERY hard for me to get up even, let alone get to work on time. I got a write up the first time, and explained the illness that i'm going through and told them i'd put more effort in getting to work on time. (an hour and a half late!). So I've gotten better, with coming in late only 30 min or so...and still got another write up. This time I won't get a chance, they said the next tardy, I will be terminated. My question is, doesnt "Major Depression" count as an illness? If I were physically ill they'd understand, but this doesnt cut it? Can someone help as to what my legal rights are in this situation? I have a doctor's note, on antidepressants, and taking therapy sessions. So, Im doing all I can to get better, but this is only making me more depressed

Jody · Accepted Answer

Can your employer change your work time to later in the day?  That should solve the problem for you.

Unfortunately, being late won't cut it. If they make exceptions for one employee, thay will have to make exceptions for anyone at anytime. Even with depression you are responsible to get to work on time.

Yes, even with a doctor's note and therapy and medicine, it is your responsibility to get to work on time. You don't have any legal recourse, you've been given two written warnings, the third time, they can fire you.

randall w · Answer

You are right about one thing; people just don't seem to care as much about issues related to mental health. If you had cancer they would be going out of their way to help. I had a terrible year in 2009 with mental health problems. Depression, panic attacks, anger issues etc... I was misdiagnosed and overmedicated and to make matters worse I was medicating myself with alcohol which resulted in two DWI charges only three weeks apart.The problems took their toll on my relationship with my employer. I also had days when I just could not get up and get it together and make it to work.I had days when I had panic attacks and walked out of work and went home without telling anybody. They finally sugested I take a medical leave and get things sorted out.
I received short term disability while I was off and things finally got better. Perhaps this would be an option for you.Nobody understands how bad this can be unless they have been there themself!
Be very cafull with medications they can make matters worse. Hang in there things will get better with time.

I was diagnosed with severe depression and its effecting the workplace?

Related Questions

Trending Questions