Hi Cindy,

Thank you for your post – I’ve been struggling with this for many years.

In 2010 I left behind a career in Government public relations which I had worked hard since 1998 – however I did not look after my health or spiritual life – nor address a history of very serious neglect and sexual abuse so my work and reputation suffered. The perception and judgement of my employers made things 100 per cent worse. One HR employer forced herself in my home – complete disrespect for my mental state and used my anxiety to manipulate her way in.

I’m glad to hear you are taking the courageous step of working through it.

My advice is to reach out now to your support and spiritual community and distance yourself from the attitudes of your workplace. Don’t get caught up in their mindset – understanding mental illness and stress related conditions in the workplace still has a long way to go.

At the risk of sounding adversary, be your own advocate and quietly find out what your legal rights are.

For example in Australia it is illegal to discriminate against someone with mental health issues, and employers are legally obliged to provide employees reasonable accommodation – for example part time hours or an agreement that you can leave for a yoga or meditation class or book a room where you can meditate in the middle of the day.

These laws might not be available where you live but do yourself a favour and build up a support group by reaching out to a mental health advocacy group/peak organisation and seek some advice.

Hope that is useful

Lisa