Returing to work following relapse

[christine66]

I started to relapse in to depression towards the end of last year. While I had not been taking medication for six months following my last high I had been doing really well. That is until there was a change in the management team. My previous mananger was so supportive and  able to judge how I was feeling. He knew when to challenge me and when I needed extra support. Unfortunately my new manager either looks on me as some one he can rely  on for support in his new role. If I am not doing so well he will avoid me to the point of ignoring me. I returned to work yesterday and the meeting I had with him was awful. I left feeling very patronised and frustrated. I do not know how to change things so I feel supported. What makes it worse for me is the fact we are all mental health professionals. I know if things do not work out this time I am in danger of losing my job.
I would appreciate any ideas to help me move forward.

[christine66]

hi thanks for your suggestions yes I spent time with him last week informing him of what support I need.  My previous manager has also spent time with him.It just feels strange because we are in a mental health team he is great with clients but seems to avoid me. I think I will have to get another party involved. Thanks for your support.
Take care Christine

[therese83]

Have you tried talking to him.

Maybe with a mediator, union rep or staff representative.  I see when you are strong he relies on you, so he hasnt written you off, he may need some help in understanding what is going on and what support you require.  if you put him in the picture, perhaps?
Now maybe you allready did if so sorry.

Good luck

[christine66]

Thanks I think will be looking for further advice on what I can do to make things work out. Perhaps my new manager needs to be aware of his responsibilities.
Thanks again take care. I will let you know how I get on.
Christine66

[ILADVOCATE]

You have the right to be treated like everyone else and to reasonable accomodations for any specific concerns you might have. You could find out more at your local independent living center. There's one in every county of every state:
http://www.ilru.org/html/publications/directory/index.html