Chronic Fatigue And Work

Chronic Fatigue And Work


Chronic Fatigue Syndrome affects everyone in a different way. Some are able to carry on and maintain active and even strenuous lives. Some are badly affected while others are completely housebound. Those who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome could face further stress and anxiety if their work and career are affected. In this article we will attempt to give some useful advice on what to do if Chronic fatigue Syndrome is beginning to affect your working life.

One of the first things you should do if you are a CFS sufferer is to know your rights in the workplace. Make sure you know your company’s policy on long term illness and sickness benefit. Knowing this information ahead of time can save a lot of aggravation in the future.

The next thing you should do is to make your boss aware of what is happening. You need to keep the lines of communication open and even educate them about your condition if necessary. Make sure that you are seeking and following a treatment plan and that your boss is aware of this. This can avoid a lot of stress and negative speculation in the workplace for the future.

Third, you should prepare yourself for what may come. Things may be fine at the present time but there could come a day when you cannot cope with your current position. You may have to consider a reduction in responsibilities, hours, or even the possibility of not working at all. IT is possible that with good treatment, this day won’t come, but preparing for it mentally will make it easier to cope with if it does.

Finally, be very careful of losing disability benefits. Some CFS sufferers will attempt to work part time to remain useful to their companies. However, when the time comes to claim disability, some find their amount is figured as a part time employee. This drastically reduces their benefit sometimes to a point where it isn’t a livable income. Make sure that you know your companies disability policy so this does not happen to you. You may be at a financial advantage by leaving work earlier as a full time employee.

Those who have to cope with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may have to face some life changing decisions. A reduction or change in job may be necessary or work may have to stop completely. What ever situation you find yourself in, make sure you and your employer have open communication. Make sure you’re aware of all policies pertaining to your disability and your rights.