Vulnerable post, please be kind
I am considering taking a leave of absence from a very stressful job. I don’t have support from management and they only seem to pile on the work.
I do work for a covered employer under FMLA. I struggle with the embarrassment to have to take this leave, feeling like I’m giving up and I’m weak for doing so. I can’t effectively do my job and my personal life is really suffering as well as my health. Can anyone share their experience taking leave due to stress?

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I haven’t taken a leave due to stress but best believe I would definitely do so if my stress levels reached the point of impacting my personal life and health. It takes strength to recognize when you need a break and a different strategy. I think the real weakness here is truly how we’re mostly conditioned to think we have to sacrifice our well being for the sake of a job. Do what is best for you even without the support of management. Take the time off so you can reset and come back a better/ refreshed version of yourself or strategize and find a more supportive work environment. Sending you positive vibes and I hope you take great care.

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In my prior similar situation, I left the job.. The issue with taking leave is that you will have to return to this stressful job again later. Is this the job you truly want..?

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I have not taken any leave, but I have been in therapy for the challenges I faced in the job and in my personal past.

I felt embarrassed for even this type of self-care, as I've dealt with various forms of sexist, racist, and sexual harassment in my personal and professional history. I always thought that strength was in letting things roll of my back, but I realize letting myself be treated that way and allowing stress to control my life was slowly eating away at me.

If you can take FMLA, do it. Getting away to clear your mind as you think about your options will give you the space you need to think clearly.

It's a benefit, and you have every right to exercise it.

likesmarthelpful

I’d say… take the FMLA. That’s why it’s there. There’s absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about. When it’s getting to the point where your mental well-being and your mental health is being impacted, in addition to your family, the job needs to be placed on the back burner. You have other priorities that need your attention, and that’s completely okay. But like others have mentioned, you’ll still eventually have to come back, and deal with the heavy workload. Perhaps looking for another job at a different company after your leave ends, could be an option. Or maybe try applying for a different role internally, that you think might have a less demanding workload. But ultimately, you’re most important!

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Pivot, pivot, pivot. Let go.

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Take it and take care of yourself! I’ve taken FMLA twice in my work history. Never was embarrassed, actually came refreshed from one job. The other one, I found it was the opportunity to leave and find another job.

likesmarthelpful

Thank you for the helpful and kind responses. I’ve definitely been trying to leave the job. Even taking time to properly apply to a job is time I don’t have. Thus the thought of taking the leave of absence.
Today I just hit a breaking point.

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Take the leave, recharge, get a therapist to talk through things with, update your resume & start applying elsewhere.

A little method I use: Save jobs casually throughout the week, apply to things only once a week.

Hang in there! Things will get better ☀️

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I didn't take a leave. I left the employer. I actually resigned during a meeting. My stress level was off the charts. I started doing independent contract work while I did an overall life reset. I found an insane level of peace and my career priorities are so different now. It wasn't easy, but it was right for me. I have a great manager now and work on a great team. It's not without challenges, but where I am now wouldn't have happened had I not trusted the process.

likesmart

Thank you for sharing your experience. I am taking next week off and my focus will be to update my resume and begin networking to find my next opportunity.

Take the leave. You are entitled to it as part of your compensation and you don’t have to tell your employer the specific reason or diagnosis. It’s a simple and quick process. It will also send the right message to management, and they will have to deal with the repercussions of your leaving, even temporarily. Your mental and physical health are most important.

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Take the leave. Your company will not care about your mental health or well-being only you will. Always do what’s best for you

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I agree, take it if it’s offered. Get your doctors note and rest. Mine was super stressful that it was mental and physical trauma because of it. At the end, i used the last 2 weeks of my FMLA to look for a role that is more aligned with my personal work belief. I don’t feel embarrassed because everyone has a personal issue to deal with. At the end of it all, I resigned, the stress is not worth my health.

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Take the leave. Use the time to focus on health and your next move… outside that company

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How long has this been going on? I know you mentioned that your management isn't being supportive, so I apologize if this seems redundant. Have you talked with your management about the toll this is taking on you? Granted, it's bad leadership for them to expect you to do the jobs of 2 people. But if you haven't said it's a burden, they may assume you're fine with the additional load.

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8 months?? Sorry, I completely misunderstood the original post, as I thought you were filling in for someone else on FMLA. But is there even an end date to these added duties? If I were in your shoes, I'd be looking for opportunities elsewhere. If they keep giving you more work despite you telling them you're already overwhelmed, they've made it clear that they do not care about nor respect you.

I’ve taken a 2-month leave but the problem is that I had to return and problems don’t really go away😅 I did feel refreshed and set a new professional goal for myself. Definitely consider if this job is right for you.

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Take the leave and do not feel embarrassed. You are allowed to take a break

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Take the leave you only live once why live your life in turmoil and stress? I’m pretty sure if you’re not there they still gonna run it’s the harsh reality however that’s more than enough opportunity to rise above it

Thank you everyone that took the time and offer kindness. I’m actively searching now for a job and hope to find something soon. Happy holidays to all and may this be a time of so much joy for all.

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