Thread for those struggling at work or worrying about return to work because of ill mental health. There is hope. Plenty of it. What we need is a change in workplace culture and supportive employers being the norm and not an exception. My depressive illness has spanned across 1/6

20 years and I suspect will stay with me a long time still. My job is demanding and at times stressful. Stress can mean relapse. Relapse can mean poor functioning and even hospital stays. Yet I've managed to stay at work for five years now with the exception of two two month 2/6

breaks. A hugely important thing in enabling this has been a workplace that's been extremely supportive. I've been able to discuss my mental health openly with all my supervisors. They have regularly checked how I was feeling. Not in an intrusive or nosy way but in a warm and 3/6

supportive one. When I've struggled with stress, colleagues, home life etc the supervisors have been there to help me think about what could be helpful. HR have equally been empathetic, caring and quick to lighten my work duties. The emphasis has always been this: What matters4/6

most is my wellbeing. The supportive and warm atmosphere has been more important than anything else. Knowing that the support is always there has increased my wellbeing. There's no stress of trying to hide the problem. If all work places where as supportive I'd imagine more 5/6

people being able to work even when their mental health is not optimal. Being supportive doesn't
need to be big things. An open, supportive and caring environment goes a long way. If you're struggling know you're not alone. Work doesn't have to be a part of the struggle. 6/6