Working in the charity sector can be extremely rewarding, but it’s also emotionally charged. You’re invested in making a difference because you work closely with the people you’re supporting. If the pressure becomes too much, you might need to take a mental health break. And if you do, it’s helpful to know what you can expect when you return back to the workforce.
Remember, taking a break is completely acceptable
You might have needed to take a mental health break for all sorts of reasons. It might be because of a pre-existing condition, it may be because of the work you do, or a combination of both. A period of reflection can help you become more aware of your triggers, in order to continue giving your best.
Your mental health is covered by the law. Section 6.1 of the Equality Act 2010 defines a disability as ‘a physical or mental impairment which has a “substantial” and “long-term” negative effect on your ability to do normal day-to-day activities.’
There are things that can help getting back into work after depression, anxiety or any other mental health condition you’re experiencing. When you’re feeling ready to return to work, take a look at the following advice to ease the transition.
Test the waters with volunteering
Remember, there’s no pressure to go back to work quickly―and it’s counterproductive to do so before you’re ready. Work stressors need support and management, especially on the difficult days.
Before jumping back into things full-time, you could consider volunteering. It still provides you with the feel-good sensation of helping your community, but often with less responsibility.
It provides structure and can help you regain that sense of achievement. And you can fit it around your routine more easily during the earlier, and perhaps more intense, stages of the healing process. Believe us, plenty of charities will be keen for your support.
Ask yourself—should you be following a new path?
Having the time to reflect on the work you were doing can be useful. Was the role itself impacting your mental health? If so, maybe it’s time to look at another organisation or type of role within the sector.
There’ll be plenty of jobs for your skill set and personality―you don’t need to stick to a specific role or organisation. This is true whether you’re changing jobs within the sector or entering it for the first time.
Take a look at what charities are hiring today and see if any roles stand out to you. Don’t be afraid to reach out to these charities directly to show you’re interested and ask about the type of candidate they’re looking for.
When it comes to the interview stage, remember there’s no legal obligation to disclose your mental health, even if the interviewers ask you. Whether you share this information is entirely up to you.
Put adjustments in place
Whether you’re returning to your old role or starting a new one, it’s a good idea to have a discussion with your employer about your needs. Have a think beforehand about any adjustments that might help. For guidance speak to your GP and see the NHS information about returning to work.
Adjustments could include:
- Reduced hours – Working part-time at the start may prevent work from becoming overwhelming
- Remote working – Working from home can be helpful, but it’s important to consider the impact the lack of social interaction may have
- Taking frequent breaks – This can help you avoid repeating the same patterns
- Setting structured mealtimes – Having a set routine could keep you from eating your lunch at your desk or skipping breaks altogether.
Websites like BreatheHR provide guidance for employers on supporting employees who’ve returned to work after a mental health break.
Continue recovery in employment
First, congratulate yourself on returning to work and on the hard work you’ve put in to get to this stage. Going forward, it’ll be important to maintain the support network you’ve established.
Free resources are available to support you. Maximus, for example, provides an Access to Work Mental Health Support Service which is ‘available at no charge to any employees with depression, anxiety, stress or other mental health issues affecting their work’. The trained experts help those struggling either to stay in their current job or to return to work.
Charities like Mind and Rethink also have information and advice. And you have the right to book time off work in advance to attend any outside appointments such as therapy sessions.
If you work in the charity sector, it’s likely you’re a driven worker with a passion to help. But helping others is only achievable if you also look after yourself. Where possible, do things you enjoy outside work. Yoga classes, a meet-up with friends and reading groups are just a few ways to rewind, reset and help you tackle the working days.
Feel like it’s time to follow a new path? Take a look at what charities are hiring today.
This post was originally published in 2020. We’ve updated it to ensure relevance and to reflect the current job seeker experience.
