should I share personal info to mgr??

Nurses General Nursing

Published

I am considering taking a FMLA leave at work for depression and anxiety until I'm stabilized on my medication. I work in a critical care setting and I know my thinking processes and reactions are very much affected and getting worse. My doctor has been changing my meds to see what will work but so far no luck. I have a lifelong problem with it- I've been on about various meds for 20 years but it's scary in critical care. I know I do very well when things are working.

My question is, do I tell my manager? If I file for a leave- the hospital is going to know that I have a mental illness that can, at times, impair my ability to work. Could they fire me for that? Could I lose my license? Would it be better just to quit or change to per diem until things are better and pick up later?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac.

Go through your Employee Assistance Program. I took a leave of absence, mind you it was in the 80s, through my EAP, they called my boss and told them I would be out for seven weeks....no questions asked. You have a right to your privacy.

Good luck. First and foremost take care of yourself and be the best that you can be.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ORTHOPAEDICS-CERTIFIED SINCE 89.

I agree w/ Tweety. A little knowledge is a dangerous thing and a lot of knowledge (conveyed to your manager) WILL be a dangerous thing. You apply for FEMLA through EAP or human resources and leave the manager out of the primary loop. As far as she is concerned you are out for sick leave. Period.

http://www.dol.gov/dol/allcfr/ESA/Title_29/Part_825/Subpart_C.htm

One thing I forgot to add is that if you have employer paid health insurance and have no leave time to pay for it you may have to cover the cost of the insurance yourself. That can be expensive but not more so than your own peace of mind while you heal.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med/Surg.

Hi,

I think it's kinda sad that there is still this non-acceptance of people with chronic anxiety/depression. I'm in the same boat, and I would suggest not telling management about your situation. It is your personal info and I would not volunteer that information. Good luck to you and take care of yourself!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Day Surgery/Infusion/ED.

You can get the FMLA paperwork from your doctor without going through an EAP. As long as you've worked long enough to qualify for FMLA, you're guaranteed the time off for up to 12 weeks without losing your position. (Whether or not you're paid depends on how much PTO you have.)

You are also afforded protection under the ADA in terms of not being discriminated against at work.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment