What To Say When Calling In Sick With Anxiety?

Crafting the Perfect Script: Mastering the Call-In-Sick Conversation

Let’s face it, dialing up your boss to say you’re not coming in because your mental health is taking a dive is no walk in the park. But hey, anxiety doesn’t punch a time card; it hits when it hits. So, whether it’s butterflies in your stomach that feel more like fire-breathing dragons or a full-blown panic attack rendering you incapable of getting out of bed, sometimes, you’ve just gotta make that call. But how do you navigate this oh-so-delicate dance? Let’s break it down.

The Perfect Blend of Honesty and Professionalism

Kick off with a Courteous Introduction: Start with the basics, like “Good morning, [Manager’s Name].” It’s just good manners and sets the stage for a respectful conversation.

Be Direct but Not Overly Detailed: You want to be honest that you can’t make it in due to health reasons, but you don’t need to dive into the nitty-gritty of your symptoms. “I’m not feeling well enough to be effective at work today” can be both truthful and succinct. Remember, while honesty is the best policy, TMI (too much information) is not required.

Keep the Focus on Your Current State: No need to give a blow-by-blow of your anxiety journey unless you’re comfortable doing so. Instead, focus on the present. Phrases like, “I’ve been advised by my health professional to take the day to focus on my well-being” can convey seriousness without inviting a deep dive into personal details.

Offer a Glimpse of Your Plan: Without committing to a timeline you might not be able to keep, indicate that you’re taking steps to manage the situation. “I’m following my doctor’s advice and will keep you updated on my progress” shows initiative and responsibility.

End on a Note of Gratitude: A little thank you goes a long way. Acknowledge that you understand the inconvenience and express your gratitude for their understanding. “Thank you for your support and understanding” can wrap up your call on a positive note.

A Quick Dos and Don’ts Checklist:

Do: Keep it professional and brief. Express gratitude for their understanding. Focus on the impact on your work performance rather than the specifics of your anxiety.

Don’t: Dive into unnecessary details about your symptoms. Make it sound like an everyday occurrence. Forget to mention your plan to address or manage your situation.

Navigating the murky waters of calling in sick with anxiety requires a balancing act between honesty and discretion. Remember, you’re entitled to take care of your mental health, just as you would with physical health. With a touch of tact and thoughtfulness, you can communicate your needs without crossing into over-sharing territory. Here’s to putting your well-being first – because, at the end of the day, you can’t pour from an empty cup.