I had stroke-like symptoms a week ago. I've been taking Wellbutrin and Lexapro for depression and anxiety. My doc just increased the Lexapro. Anytime I think about work or walk into the building, I become nervous and fearful and my hand starts to shake. I am seeing a neurologist and a counselor next week. My doctor suggested six weeks off work, and I was approved for FMLA. My family (my husband and his parents) thinks I should be working and that I'm not working right now just because I don't feel like it and that I am making the whole thing up. They all say I look just fine and nothing appears to be wrong at all, but I don't feel right, and I don't know how to try to explain what's going on in my head.
Introducing Mood 24/7, a new tool that helps you track your mood from day to day using your mobile phone. Try it today!
Q: How do I get my family to understand I need time off from work right now?
Answers (2)
6/12/08 3:05pm
I'd suggest they talk to your doctor. I'd also get at least your husband to come to this site and ask him to do some research with you. Worse comes to worse, I'd be inclined to say: this is the way it is and I AM taking some time off of work. On the other hand, there are some out there who would advocate that confronting your fears would be the best medicine...I am not one of those people. You need to figure out why going to your job has this effect on you (unless you already know). Either way, it is ultimately your choice. I was married to a man who never understood my problems (didn't even try, wouldn't work with me and told everyone I was crazy)...he still doesn't get it...we've been divorced for 5 years now. The man I'm with now totally gets it and is there for me. Good luck to you.
10/24/08 3:23am
Perhaps taking time off from work would be beneficial for you, but I quit my job over a year ago in a temper because of stress, anxiety and personal frustrations. I had always figured my job contributed significantly to my anxiety and depression because I would experience such stress there. Now that my savings are essentially gone, I'm facing the fact of finding a new job and experiencing a severe emotional set-back. Being away from work just allowed me to avoid my anxiety more which always makes it worse ultimately. In conclusion, I wish I'd never quit my job and it seems to have done nothing to allow me to heal nervously which is very hard for me to believe. I was sure it would benefit me. Just my story to consider.
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of The HealthCentral Network. The HealthCentral Network does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
