Mental Health & FMLA: Depression and Anxiety

Introduction

Mental health IS health. The FMLA makes no distinction between physical and mental illness. If your condition prevents you from working, you have rights.

When Does Mental Health Qualify?

Anxiety, depression, or PTSD becomes a "serious health condition" when it requires:

1. **Inpatient Care:** An overnight stay in a hospital or residential medical care facility. 2. **Continuing Treatment:** - Incapacity of more than 3 consecutive days + 2 doctor visits. - chronic conditions (like severe depression) requiring periodic visits (at least twice a year) for treatment.

Common Uses

• **Therapy Appointments:** Using intermittent leave to attend weekly sessions.
• **Medication Adjustments:** Taking a week off while switching antidepressants to manage side effects.
• **Episodes/Flare-ups:** Taking a day off during a severe panic attack.

Privacy Concerns

Your manager does **NOT** need to know your diagnosis. They only need to know you require "medically necessary leave."

**Note:** HR will see the certification form, but they constitute a confidential medical record.

Conclusion

Do not suffer in silence to protect your job. FMLA is there to help you get the treatment you need to return to full health.

*LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. Consult with a qualified employment attorney or your HR department.*