Help and advice appreciated

nnop72

Hi

I am looking for some advice. A month ago I moved job and city, but the problem I have is I am rapidly sinking into anxiety and depression - all related to the stress of my new job. I have suffered from this before, about six years ago for two years, but fought my way out of it, so I know the symptoms all too well.

I am currently lodging, with a written agreement, and have about a month's worth of spare cash saved up. As I understand it, if I resign I will be unable to claim any benefits. Likewise, if I go off sick, I will only be able to claim SSP and that won't even cover the rent never mind.

I want to find a lower paid, lower stress job, but I am concerned I won't be much use to anyone if I can't get anything soon. I haven't been to the doctor's yet or spoken to anyone at work, perhaps I should.

Does anyone have any advice? For example, if I were to get my employer to agree to terminate my contract on medical grounds, would that allow me to claim benefits as if I had been made redundant??

Muttleythefrog

Sounds a bit familiar to me... symptoms get too bad... leave job.. recover some normality... new job... cycle repeats.

ESA is a benefit for those out of work unable to work through sickness or disability. To qualify you'd need sicknotes from doctor for the first 3 months or so and then you'd be assessed for the main phase of the benefit if still on it. The important thing is that it is not sanctioned if you leave your job... while JSA possibly would be (voluntarily leaving a job). You'd be able to get ESA when SSP runs out. Low income obviously would kick in other potential benefits that I have to confess I'm not in a situation to advise on with any authority especially when on SSP... if out of work on ESA you should be able to claim help with housing costs.

However before all that it might be worth having a good conversation with employer.. see if they can change your responsibilities or situation. Try to figure out what it is particularly about jobs/work that is causing the problems. Doctor may be able to help... quite possibly if you tell them your problems they'll prescribe an SSRI anti-depressant to see if it helps... in time perhaps get you counselling or psychotherapy.