Inform manager about depression ?
I am a new mom and suffering from post-partum depression. I manage a team of 9 engineers and seeing a decline in my own efficiency to perform. Should I inform my boss about my situation?
Depends on the relationship you have with your manager.
He is a good boss. But he is very senior and has a lot more critical stuff to oversee. My problems will be very petty for him.
If he is a good boss, I don’t think any type of situation for any of his employee under him should be petty for him. I would say go and talk.
Take vacation
A woman recently won a lawsuit against her employer for being fired while having Post Partum depression. This article may help you better understand your rights.
Most managers I have worked with (all white) would recommend to take your time- vacation or sick, and relax. Nobody would send to HR or did any destructive action.
What do you expect from your manager?
I expect a little extra buffer when it comes to tasks that are not business critical. This is an opportunity I could use to lean more on my team members and delegate them the tasks that otherwise were my sole responsibility.
Great... put it that way in a 1-1 (to learn on team members and grow on your level. Ask him/her what the opinion is?). IOW, can you avoid saying you need extra buffer? (I wish it’s not that way, but unfortunately it is).
See if you can take time off on health grounds. FMLA or something similar. Also you are doing great and don’t let negative feelings take over. Focus on your and baby’s health. Lean on your partner, family and friends. Most importantly TALK and do not isolate yourself. I can relate as we just had a baby but I am the dad.
Amazon is a horrible workplace for new parents, take time off if possible
FMLA covers mental and behavioral health issues. It’s also part of ADA and you are a protected employee. I’d take time off and consider stepping away from a manager role if it’s causing issues.
I am on H1-B and changing roles on a whim like that is a little more complicated 😞
Well, then, it sounds like you need help from your doctor. If you can get a prescription and start going to therapy, it will definitely help. Or you can start looking for less stressful companies. At this point, I’m pretty sure you’re aware of your options. Try to build a support group around you that will help you tread water until the storm is over. You’ll get there, it just takes time.
No. There’s little incentive for the manager to support you. Talk to a specialist and figure out the steps to get back to your old self. Take time off if needed.
Thanks for the advice. Yes. I think nothing good will come out of it.