There are a number of strategies and supports that you can put in place to manage your illness and to stay healthy in general.
Supports
- If you have disclosed your illness to colleagues or management, be sure to establish any accommodations or flexible work practices that can assist you to get your job done.
- Access the supports that Australian Government employment service providers offer:
- If you think your job is at risk as a result of your mental illness, talk to your Australian Government employment service provider or Centrelink about job in jeopardy assistance. This is immediate support to help you keep your job.
- Make use of employee assistance programs or other support schemes made available by your employer.
- See your doctor regularly, and if you notice any changes to your mental health then see your doctor as soon as possible.
- If you become unwell and need to take time off, stay connected to your workplace through email, by receiving workplace bulletins at home, or by attending work social activities if you are able.
Strategies
- Be aware of, and avoid the things that trigger your illness.
- Monitor your stress levels.
- Take tea and lunch breaks, and if necessary go off site to alleviate stress.
- Exercise during your lunch break.
- Maintain your medication routine. Employers may be able to provide a private place to store and/or take your medication.
- Maintain a routine when you feel unwell.
- Develop a healthy way to release anger, such as an off-site walk, meeting with or phoning a friend.
- Learn and use relaxation techniques.
- Maintain behaviour appropriate to the situation.
- If you are unwell or unhappy about something, speak to a trusted person in confidence.
- Use your network of family or friends, caseworker or community links.
- Tips on managing stress at work
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