Having to take time off

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Specializes in OB, ortho/neuro, home care, office.

Well, after my much read story about my personal life. I recently had a turn of events.

I'm now applying for temporary disability d/t inability to focus on what I"m doing at work. Sucks, but I don't have a choice. Doctor said 'you're in no condition to work right now' d/t mostly panic attacks at work.

So now I'm being properly medicated. The mind chatter is less, so that is a plus, but short term memory went to heck when I started the new bipolar med. I'm hoping it will return soon because that's just one more reason I can't work. I truly don't want to be 'disabled' in fact it drives me nuts, I truly would rather work.

But, in the condition I was in, I totally agree with the doctor. I wasn't in any condition to take care of myself, let alone someone else. So I hope I made the right decision, and I hope it isn't for too long.

Anyone that knows anything about how to go about temp. disability, how long it takes and so on. Please please help me out. I'm clueless.

Thanks in advance. Also - side note. I am in classes now (bipolar) and start with a therapist on Friday this week. So I am doing my best to get this under control.

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Specializes in Jack of all trades, and still learning.

Hey Jen. Being from Oz I can't help you there. But I wish you the best of luck, and hope someone with a bit more knowledge than me can help you with your questions

:)

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Specializes in IM/Critical Care/Cardiology.
Well, after my much read story about my personal life. I recently had a turn of events.

I'm now applying for temporary disability d/t inability to focus on what I"m doing at work. Sucks, but I don't have a choice. Doctor said 'you're in no condition to work right now' d/t mostly panic attacks at work.

So now I'm being properly medicated. The mind chatter is less, so that is a plus, but short term memory went to heck when I started the new bipolar med. I'm hoping it will return soon because that's just one more reason I can't work. I truly don't want to be 'disabled' in fact it drives me nuts, I truly would rather work.

But, in the condition I was in, I totally agree with the doctor. I wasn't in any condition to take care of myself, let alone someone else. So I hope I made the right decision, and I hope it isn't for too long.

Anyone that knows anything about how to go about temp. disability, how long it takes and so on. Please please help me out. I'm clueless.

Thanks in advance. Also - side note. I am in classes now (bipolar) and start with a therapist on Friday this week. So I am doing my best to get this under control.

Hi Jen,

I can relate with the short-term memory loss and it is scary and embarrassing to me. I have asked my doctor to switch around some meds that might make a difference and I found one. You can PM if you'd like for more info.

I heard the exact words(no kidding) you are too sick to work. Devasting. But you still have your will to learn and work. That is a driving force right there, and when the doubts come, I think about school, being in control (of myself) and then doing what I know I can do, affirm I can nurse again. So glad you saw the doc and the meds are started. Please keep us posted, we are here for you, to listen, to read your vents, and encourage a quality life in and out of the profession.

Sharona

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you need to get the application, first. if your doc doesn't have any, your state unemployment office will, or even perhaps the county social services dept. fill out your part, have your doc fill out part, your employer may have to fill out part, and send it in.

in ca, it takes about 2-3 weeks for it to be processed and then they will pay retroactively. that's it. every two weeks you get a check, with each check will be a form you have to send back stating whether or not you are still on temp dis.

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

Bless you for caring enough for yourself and others to take care of yourself.

I'll look forward to updates, and keep you in my prayers!

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

I am so very sorry for this. I hope you find lasting and complete recovery and a good life, wherever you go. I hope there is light at the end of this tunnel for you.

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I wish you the best of luck as you go through this. You are taking the right steps to take care of yourself. Do that, and the rest will follow. ;) I hope you are able to find what works for you so you can get back to doing what you love. You have support here! :)

Tiffany

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Specializes in ER, Occupational Health, Cardiology.

I am so glad that you got to a Dr. and got the ball rolling to take care of yourself. Hopefully, as with a lot of meds, the side effects will be transient. Good luck to you, and don't ever give up.

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Specializes in NICU.

(((((Jen))))) I just read your other post about what all has been going on with you. I'm so sorry you're going through all of this, but I'm so glad you took it upon yourself to research it and get the help you need.

I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

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Good luck to you. Please consider having your doctor fill out the paperwork so you can file for FMLA. At least that will protect your job for 3 months.

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

Best wishes for a speedy stablization and a quick return to work.

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jen, wishing you only the very best.

you're a brave and insightful soul.

here's a link to apply for disability benefits, online.

http://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/adult.htm

leslie

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