Off - generally

Calvin and Hobbes hits the nail on the head every time!

This may explain away the last few weeks as I have been off work - with permission of my Doctor and a' fit to work' note.  Or not , as the case may be.

Actually I have been signed-off for a further three weeks but it would be probably be less stressful  to do a 'phased return' – because all I do is worry about it anyway.  Also, some of the feedback I have received from HR linked are not exactly helpful. - which is not necessarily ideal is someone is already feeling unwell.  Naturally it is understood that businesses and organisations have to continue running but contingencies are not the responsibility of the individual.

Having said that, I am my own worst enemy and can't switch off, can't sleep and worry too much. 

Don't you think it is interesting that what  the majority of us would refer to as a 'sicknote' from the doctor is actually called a  "Statement of Fitness for Work".  I have done a little research and this all changed in April 2010 and it has rather positive intentions,  According to the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) in advice to employers:

"Under the sick note system, doctors could only advise their patient on whether their health condition meant that they should or should not work. As a result many people who could benefit from support whilst in work, would be advised that they could not work. Their employers would not have had the opportunity to consider how they could help them achieve an earlier return to work. To help more people get the support they need to get back to work the new fit note system will mean that doctors can advise that your employee is either:

• unfit for work; or •
• may be fit for work.

A doctor will give a ‘may be fit for work’ Statement if they think that their patient’s health condition may allow them to work if they get suitable support from their employer. If an employee is too ill to work the doctor will advise this just like with the sick note. The changes are not about trying to get people back to work before they are ready, but about removing the challenges to them returning. This is about you and your employee working together and being open and honest. In general, work is good for health and the vast majority of employees place a far greater value on it than just their pay. By working together to find an arrangement that suits both of you, you can provide real benefits to both your employee and your business"

Makes sense.
​So, now you know!